GA HB115

Vessel registration applications must include a statement warning applicants of criminal consequences for failing to remove an abandoned vessel from public waters or public property

Law enforcement officers must perform "unattended vessel checks" on vessels left in public waters to verify no injured persons are aboard and no public safety threats exist, with check cards attached to inspected vessels

Registered vessel owners who fail to remove abandoned vessels within 30 days of notice face a misdemeanor of a high and aggravated nature (up to $5,000 fine and/or 12 months confinement); second or subsequent offenses constitute a felony (up to $50,000 fine and/or 5 years imprisonment)

Courts may order convicted owners to pay restitution to the Department of Natural Resources for removal, storage, and disposal costs of abandoned vessels

The 30-day removal requirement is suspended for 36 months following a Governor-declared state of emergency due to natural disaster affecting the vessel's location