INSPECTIONS AND FEES FOR

NON-MOTORIZED LIVERY BOATS

House Bill 5164

Sponsor:  Rep. Peter Pettalia

Committee:  Natural Resources, Tourism, and Outdoor Recreation

Complete to 4-23-12

A SUMMARY OF HOUSE BILL 5164 AS INTRODUCED 11-10-11

The bill would modify inspection requirements and fees for certain non-motorized livery boats. It amends multiple sections of Part 445 (Charter and Livery Boat Safety) of the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act (MCL 324.44514 et al.).

Specifically, the bill would require livery boats and equipment to be inspected once per year, except for livery boats that are non-motorized canoes, kayaks, or rafts, which would be inspected once every three years.  Non-motorized livery boats would have to display the maximum number of occupants and maximum weight allowed to be carried aboard the livery boat.  The information would be able to be displayed on a manufacturer's decal, plate, tab, or by other means.

Additionally, the expiration for a permit to operate a livery would be moved from December 31 to May 31 of the year following the year in which the permit is issued.  If the livery boats are non-motorized canoes, kayaks, or rafts, the permit would expire on May 31 of the third year after the year in which the permit is issued.

The bill would also require a $2 fee for each decal for non-motorized canoes, kayaks, or rafts that are inspected.  This provision is already in place for livery boats.  It would also increase from $5 to $6, the fee for a 15-day permit for vessels that have applied for, but not yet received, a certificate of number.

The Secretary of State is required to issue a decal upon the receipt of an application for certificate of number and payment.  Decals are valid for three years, beginning on April 1 and expiring on March 31 of the third year.  The bill would specify that decals for non-motorized canoes or kayaks that are used for rental or other commercial purposes are valid when issued and have no expiration date.  Additionally, an original certificate of number for such a vessel could be issued at any time. (The act states that original certificates of number may only be issued up to 90 days before April 1).

FISCAL IMPACT:

A fiscal analysis is in process.

                                                                                           Legislative Analyst:   Jeff Stoutenburg

                                                                                                   Fiscal Analyst:   Viola Bay Wild

■ This analysis was prepared by nonpartisan House staff for use by House members in their deliberations, and does not constitute an official statement of legislative intent.