HB 2076 Summary

• Reduces the notice period for unauthorized vessels from 72 hours to 24 hours before department impoundment, with timeframe not restarting if vessel is moved within state waters while remaining in violation.

• Changes the timeframe for owners to claim impounded unauthorized and abandoned vessels from 30 days to 10 working days, and requires owners to pay impound storage fees while vessel remains impounded.

• Expands the definition of abandoned vessels to include vessels moored, anchored, or left unattended for more than 24 hours on state waters or public property without valid registration, and makes vessel abandonment on state waters or public property a petty misdemeanor punishable by up to $1,000 fine or 30 days imprisonment.

• Reduces response time for grounded vessels from 72 hours to 24 hours for owner removal on sand beaches, sandbars, or mudflats, and shortens the notice period for claiming abandoned vessels at public auction from 20 days to 10 working days.

• Repeals the exemption allowing disposal of vessels under $5,000 appraised value without public auction, allowing agencies discretion to sell by negotiation, donation, or destruction regardless of value.