This substitute increases the minimum age for operation of a motorboat or vessel from 14 to 16, except for any person who was 14 on or before August 28, 2000. The Missouri State Water Patrol will issue this boating safety identification card. The Water Patrol may charge a fee for the card that does not substantially exceed the administrative cost of this provision. The substitute also requires that any person convicted of certain boating offenses must enroll and complete a boating safety education course which meets the Water Patrol's minimum standards, file proof of successful completion of the course with the court, and not operate a vessel until such filing. Not available at time of printing.
Supporters say that the bill is necessary to ensure safety as boats become bigger and faster.
There was no opposition voiced to the committee. This bill increases the minimum age for operation of a motorboat or vessel from 14 to 16, except for any person who was 14 on or before August 28, 2000. The Missouri State Water Patrol will issue this boating safety identification card. The Water Patrol may charge a fee for the card that does not substantially exceed the administrative cost of this provision. The bill also requires that any person convicted of certain boating offenses must enroll and complete a boating safety education course which meets the Water Patrol's minimum standards, file proof of successful completion of the course with the court, and not operate a vessel until such filing.