FL H1319

Creates Section 327.332 requiring vessel operators to reduce speed to minimum wake within 300 feet of emergency vessels (law enforcement, Coast Guard, fire, tow vessels) with activated emergency lights.

Requires vessel operators to reduce speed to minimum wake within 300 feet of construction vessels or barges with active workers displaying orange flags or yellow flashing lights.

Classifies violations of the new speed reduction requirement as noncriminal infractions with penalties of $50 for first offense, $250 for second offense within 12 months, $500 for third offense within 36 months, and $1,000 for fourth or subsequent offense within 72 months.

Reduces civil penalties for violations of derelict vessel and prohibited anchoring/mooring statutes: second offense penalty reduced from $250 to $100, and third offense penalty reduced from $500 to $250.

Takes effect July 1, 2019.