H 161 - Address Abandoned and Derelict Vessels

• Establishes definitions for "abandoned vessel" (unattended 30+ consecutive days), "derelict vessel" (wrecked/damaged/dismantled condition), and "vessel emergency" (condition requiring crew to abandon for safety).

• Creates Article 5 of Chapter 75A granting Wildlife Resources Commission authority to seize, tow, remove, and dispose of abandoned or derelict vessels, with cost recovery from vessel owners and liability protection for removal actions unless caused by gross negligence or willful misconduct.

• Establishes Waterway Safety and Access Fund administered by Wildlife Resources Commission, funded by General Fund appropriations and grants, with revenue used for vessel removal, waterway maintenance, navigational hazard mitigation, and required state matching funds for federal disaster relief.

• Requires Commission to post notice on abandoned vessels and notify owners by certified mail or personal delivery, with 30-day removal deadline (15 days during declared emergencies), and allows immediate abatement of unsafe or hazardous conditions.

• Permits forfeiture of vessels unclaimed 30 days after notice, with removal costs creating a lien enforceable through sale of the vessel; proceeds after lien satisfaction deposited to Waterway Safety and Access Fund; becomes effective July 1, 2021.