HB 6307 Summary

• Adds Part 784 to the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act, establishing regulations for large watercraft (exceeding 700 feet) operating in the Straits of Mackinac.

• Prohibits operators of large watercraft from deploying anchors, chains, cables, or similar equipment that may contact the lake bottom in the Straits of Mackinac, with exceptions for tribal vessels exercising treaty rights.

• Establishes felony penalties of up to 4 years imprisonment and/or fines up to $10,000 for violations, with courts required to order reimbursement for environmental cleanup costs.

• Requires large watercraft operators to use approved maritime pilots licensed by the U.S. Coast Guard when navigating the Straits of Mackinac, with a felony penalty of up to 4 years imprisonment and/or $5,000 fine for violations.

• Directs the Department of Natural Resources to place and maintain navigation buoys/beacons in the Straits and requires private obstruction owners to mark obstructions within 90 days, subject to civil fines up to $5,000 for non-compliance.