THE HARBOR COLUMN:

Legislation has been introduced in Sacramento by Assemblyman Mike Duvall (R-Brea) that would require recreational boaters to have a boating certificate, and skippers to carry the boater’s card with them while underway. The Recreation Boaters of California made the request to Duvall to introduce Assembly Bill 2110 after a similar bill (AB 1458) was withdrawn last year.

The new legislation will require boat operators to pass an approved test and then be issued a vessel operator card that is valid for the life of the card carrier.

There is a planned phase-in schedule by age for when a recreational boat operator must complete the requirements to operate a vessel that is equipped with an engine whether or not the engine is the main source of propulsion.

“The intent of AB 2110 is to ensure that individuals have the necessary knowledge on the laws and regulations that apply to the operation of vessels, through certification, in order to reduce accidents, injuries and fatalities. We are pleased that Assembly member Duvall will be spearheading this effort” said Walt Kadyk, RBOC president. “It became clear in discussions that involved many stakeholders throughout 2007 that the majority of California boaters support certification — provided that it will provide a measure of assurance that the other person on the waterways will have a knowledge of the laws and regulations that apply to the operation of a vessel.”

The legislation addresses rental operations with the issuance of a rental operator card, and exempts anyone with a United States Coast Guard-issued masters license.

Additionally, those participating in regattas would be exempt, as well as boaters with their vessels from outside California staying less than 90 days.

The California Department of Boating and Waterways (Cal Boating) will oversee the program and the online tests; however, other recognized programs will be accepted such as the Coast Guard Auxiliary and the U.S. Power Squadron, to name two.

Tip of the week: Do not wait to learn the rules of the road until you are mandated to take a boating safety course or pass a boater safety test.

Rags Laragione with the Maritime Institute constantly reminds boaters, “Education is the key to safe boating, so get educated.”

Safe Voyages!

MIKE WHITEHEAD is the Pilot’s boating columnist. Send marine-related thoughts and story suggestions to [email protected] or go to www.boathousetv.com.