Congressman Blake Moore (UT-01), Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01), and Congresswoman Jen Kiggans (VA-02) introduced the bipartisan State Boating Act to ensure that states can collect boating fees during the boat registration and certificate of numbering process. These fees help fund programs to address aquatic invasive species, boating safety, search and rescue, and more. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Crapo (R-ID) and Risch (R-ID) have introduced a companion bill in the Senate.
Most boats owned and operated on the waters of the United States must have either a Certificate of Documentation (COD) or a Certificate of Number (CON) on board when operating. Many states, like Utah, have collected fees for decades alongside the COD or CON fees which has enabled them to fund important boating and environmental programs, like aquatic invasive species, lake restoration, boating safety, and search and rescue efforts. Recently, the Coast Guard has blocked a number of states from collecting these boating fees alongside CON fees. The State Boating Act would make clear the ability of states to collect state boating fees alongside CON fees and registration.
“Virginia’s lakes, rivers, and coastal waterways are home to more than 250,000 registered motorboats,” said Congresswoman Kiggans. “In order for our local recreational boating industry to continue thriving, we need programs that address boating safety, search and rescue efforts, and invasive aquatic species. That’s why I joined Congressman Pappas in introducing the State Boating Act of 2024. This bipartisan bill will ensure states can support these critical programs by authorizing them to secure funding through the boat registration process. As a coastal Virginian, I’m proud to fight for commonsense policies that protect all of the incredible outdoor recreation activities the Commonwealth has to offer.”
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