Save Cal Boating January 11 Copper-based Anti-fouling Surfaces \ GPS Signals August 2011 Special Boater Brief Copper-based Anti-fouling Surfaces Summer 2011 Boater Brief Spring 2011 Boater Brief Special Boater Brief on Ethanol April 2011 |
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RBOC Installs 2013 Officers, Anticipates a Busy Lobbying Year Sacramento [February 12] RBOC at its January 16 meeting at Balboa Yacht Club in Corona del Mar, installed the officers who will lead the nonprofit boater advocacy organization through a new year that already has the lobbying group engaged on a number of fronts. The 2013 RBOC Officers are: President Jack Michael of Modesto, Vice President-North Greg Gibeson of Lake Tahoe, Vice President-South Karen Rhyne of Newport Beach, Treasurer Otis Brock of San Pablo, and Past President Cleve Hardaker of San Diego. In addition, two new directors were sworn in to replace retiring directors after long service. Jim Faustini of Dana Point steps in for Walt Kadyk and Eric Peterson of Long Beach steps in for Richard Craven. Five other directors from Southern California continue to serve, as do the seven other directors from Northern California. RBOC anticipates a busy year on a number of key issues that confront the state’s 3 million recreational boating enthusiasts. Stated President Jack Michael: “We devoted our annual business meeting to planning advocacy efforts to address several serious challenges. “These include probable legislation that will curtail the availability of effective and affordable copper based anti-fouling hull paint. We also are working, together with the national advocacy organization BoatU.S., to address the disastrous consequences from boaters having to use fuel that includes ethanol, especially the new 15% mandate. “RBOC is encouraging boaters to contact their federal and state representatives, urging them to apply the appropriate pressure on the federal permitting agencies and bureaucracies to approve new California permit requests to enable action to abate the unprecedented infestation of water hyacinth in the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta. “We will certainly maintain our vigilance this year to scrutinize the Governor’s reorganization proposal that transforms Cal Boating into a division within the State Parks and Recreation Department. This is a matter of great concern since more than sixty million dollars of boater derived revenue will now flow to Parks. In light of the financial issues that have emerged in that department we are alarmed at the prospect of Boater tax dollars being diverted to other priorities.” President Michael also advises that RBOC is funded primarily from boaters’ donations and asks that each boating family make an annual donation of at least $20. “We don't think that is too much to ask considering the $100s RBOC's efforts in Sacramento save boaters annually.” The 19-member voluntary RBOC Board will meet in Sacramento on March 19 and 20 for its annual lobbying day in the State Capitol. RBOC Urging Boaters to Contact their Federal and State Representatives Delta Hyacinth Infestation January 14, 2013 RBOC is encouraging boaters to contact their federal and state representatives, urging them to apply the appropriate pressure on the federal permitting agencies and bureaucracies to approve the new California permit requests and enable action to be taken to abate the unprecedented infestation of water hyacinth in the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta. Click Here for the sample letter boaters can send to their representatives in the US Senate, US House of Representatives, and State Legislature. The waterways of the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta, and the rivers and streams that feed The Delta, have experienced unprecedented infestation of water hyacinth, an aquatic plant that reproduces very quickly as air and water temperatures increase. The infestation the past two years has grown out of control resulting in clogged waterways that interfere with commerce on The Delta and negatively impact recreational boating, fishing, and tourism. The California Department of Boating and Waterways (DBW) has had the statutory responsibility to control this invasive species for many years. DBW is required to obtain federal permits in order to apply the pesticides that will combat the infestation. Significant permit requirements imposed by the National Marine Fisheries Services (NMFS) and the United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) have exacerbated the situation. These permit requirements have:
These limitations have led to an infestation of historical proportions. Studies have demonstrated that: [a] the primary factors contributing to the growth of hyacinth are the air and water temperatures; and [b] the pesticides the department is using have no negative impact on the fisheries. The US Department of Agriculture-Agricultural Research Service, DBW’s federal partner for the water hyacinth control program, has submitted new permit applications to NMFS and USFWS requesting that: [a] start and stop dates be determined by water and air temperatures rather than designated calendar dates; and [b] the number of applications be based on need. It is critical that these applications be expedited. Boater contacts with their elected officials should urge their representatives to take a personal interest in this critical matter and apply the appropriate pressure on the federal permitting agencies. Governor Releases Proposed Budget January 10, 2013 As anticipated, Governor Jerry Brown has issued his proposed budget for the next fiscal year that begins on July 1.Click here for the website with this information. Within the next few days, budget legislation will be introduced separately in the Senate and Assembly that will set forth the specific provisions of the budget proposal. This proposal will be considered in the Senate and Assembly budget subcommittees, and in discussions between the Governor and legislative leaders, as the budget process leads to the passage and enactment of a proposal by the beginning of the next fiscal year. Here are links to budget proposal items of particular interest:
RBOC is reviewing these just-released materials and other related information. Pursuant to Governor's Reorganization Plan No. 2, the Budget reflects the merger of the Department of Boating and Waterways into the Department of Parks and Recreation. Effective July 1, 2013, Boating and Waterways will become a new division within Parks. The Governor’s budget states that the merger will result in permanent savings of $1.1 million and a reduction of seven positions. The merger issue is of great interest to boaters. It is critical that the boaters have the leadership, transparency and accountability that the Department of Boating and Waterways has consistently provided our community, and that boater fees and taxes be dedicated to essential boating programs and services. Attorney General Issues State Parks Report January 4, 2013 The California Attorney General has now released its “Report of Investigation into Discrepancies in Financial Reports Submitted by the California Department of Parks and Recreation”. Click here for the report. Pertinent excerpts: “This investigation found no evidence of intentional or systematic failure to disclose OHV fund monies to the DOF, including the $34 million described as having been under-reported to the DOF at the close of fiscal year 2010-11. Instead, the evidence indicates that the historically erratic and at times significantly disparate OHV fund balances reported to the DOF and State Controller’s Office (SCO) are largely attributable to the timing and methodology of reporting a variety of multi-million-dollar events to those two control agencies.” Boating and Waterways Commissioners Confirmation Hearing January 3, 2013 The Senate Rules Committee is scheduled to consider the following appointments to the Boating and Waterways Commission at its hearing on Wednesday, January 9:
Governor to Release Proposed Budget January 2, 2013 On January 10, Governor Jerry Brown will be releasing his proposed budget for the state fiscal year that begins on July 1, 2013. The proposed budget should provide details on the proposed structure of state boating programs and services for the upcoming year. This is of particular interest to boaters as the the beginning of the next fiscal year on July 1 coincides with the implementation date for the Governor's proposal [opposed by RBOC] that merges the state Department of Boating and Waterwayas into the state Department of Boating and Waterways as a new Division in State Parks. RBOC is encouraging boaters to contact their Senators and Assembly Members and request that they contact Governor Jerry Brown, urging him to preserve the boating division and leadership, as well as boating programs and services, as his administration implements the Governor’s Reorganization Proposal #2 [GRP #2] over the next eight months. [See Instructions Below] Governor Appoints New State Parks Director November 15, 2012 Governor Jerry Brown has appointed Major General Anthony L. Jackson, USMC (Ret.) as director of the California Department of Parks and Recreation. RBOC President Jack Michael and Director of Government Affairs Jerry Desmond, Jr. have met with new Director Jackson to introduce RBOC and discuss issues of importance to the recreational boating community. Click here for the Governor's Press Release Contact Your Legislator to Preserve Boating Leadership & Programs as Single Entity October 16, 2012 RBOC is requesting that boaters ask their state legislators take a stand now to preserve boating leadership, programs and services as a single entity in state government. RBOC President Cleve Hardaker stated: “We are greatly concerned that the implementation of the reorganization proposal will depart from the GRP #2 that was presented to the Legislature, and will not provide for a boating division with a deputy director as its policy leader. Instead, implementation could scatter $69 million each year in boating programs and services out of a boating division, diluting them within other divisions and units in state parks.” Continued Hardaker: “Dispersing boater-funded programs and services through the State Parks is a terrible idea, especially in light of the allegations of significant financial mismanagement at the department.” Numerous accounts have revealed that State Parks management staff took advantage of a costly vacation buyout, and that State Parks had $54 million in surplus money hidden for over a decade. “It is essential that action be taken to ensure that the funds boaters pay the state are used wisely and effectively, with leadership and transparency.” Concluded Hardaker: “It is critical that legislators contact the Governor and stress the importance of this issue.” A number of critical boating programs are at risk. The Department of Boating and Waterways funds, plans, and develops boating facilities on waterways throughout California and ensures safe boating for the public by providing financial aid and training to local law enforcement agencies. In addition, the Department has responsibility for boating safety and education, licensing of yacht and ship brokers and salespeople, aquatic weed control in the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta, and beach erosion control and sand renourishment along California's coast and operates an oceanography program at the Scripps Institution of Oceanography at La Jolla. Scattering these programs throughout State Parks would be a reversal of the assurances in presentations of the Governor’s administration to the Legislature and the Little Hoover Commission that boating leadership, programs and services would be preserved. Indeed, the Little Hoover Commission report to the Legislature stated: “The Governor’s plan does simplify the state’s organizational structure and unites a greater number of recreational activities under one leader, which should improve coordination and communication and make it easier for state leaders to determine tradeoffs in setting spending and program priorities." The statutory provisions of the reorganization proposal also establish a division with the programs and services intact. Click here to identify your Senator and Assembly Member. A sample letter is here. Governor Signs Bill Raising Boat Registration Fees to Fight Invasive Species September 25 Governor Jerry Brown has signed into law AB 2443 [Williams] that will levy a Quagga and Zebra mussel infestation prevention fee on state vessel registrations to fund a grant program for implementation and administration of dreissenid mussel infestation, inspection and prevention programs. RBOC was actively engaged and lobbying in the State Capitol as AB 2443 was considered, urging that the bill be revised to address several concerns with the specific provisions of the measure. RBOC appreciates the revisions made to the bill, including provisions ensuring a critical role for the Department of Boating and Waterways in administering the expenditure of boater funds to be generated by boater fees. With the enactment of AB 2443, RBOC will continue to be involved as the bill is implemented. It is important to RBOC that boaters be well-represented on the technical advisory group that will be formed, that fees are not levied on boaters whose activities do not present a risk of invasive species being introduced or spread, that boaters do not pay twice for the same programs, that decisions on the amount and use of boater fees are made in an open, transparent process, and that the fees be utilized in an efficient and effective manner. RBOC Urges Governor to Veto AB 2443 Boaters Urged to Take Action August 29 RBOC is urging Governor Brown to veto AB 2443 [Williams].
RBOC appreciates the opportunities we have had to discuss AB 2443 with the office of Assembly Member Williams and the supporters of this legislation. We share the objective of combating invasive species. Our organization remains unconvinced, however, that the provisions of this bill will accomplish this objective, and we do not believe that the provisions justify a possible doubling of the state registration fees paid by this state’s boaters. RBOC has serious concerns with the provisions of AB 2443 that would:
RBOC has consistently stated that we would remove our opposition to AB 2443 if it were to be amended to replace the proposed increase in registration fees with provisions that would instead require the state to examine the effectiveness of the current programs being administered by a number of state and local agencies and develop recommendations to increase the effectiveness of the current approaches. While we appreciate the amendments that have been incorporated to provide an important role for the Department of Boating and Waterways in administering the expenditure of funds, the bill has not been amended to instead establish the study of current programs that should occur prior to solutions such as those proposed by AB 2443. Governor Signs Bill Enhancing Efforts to Combat Invasive Species August 27 Governor Jerry Brown has signed into law RBOC-supported AB 1540 [Buchanan], legislation designating the state Department of Boating and Waterways as the lead agency in cooperating with other agencies in controlling South American spongeplant [Limnobium laevigatum] in the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta. click here for a copy of the chaptered bill. RBOC Urges State Lands Commission to Favor Location Option 6 - Naval Base Point Loma Fuel Pier Replacement and Dredging August 20 RBOC is supporting local boaters in urging the State Lands Commission to favor location option 6 for the Naval Base Point Loma fuel pier replacement and dredging. click here for the RBOC letter click here for the referenced chart RBOC Supports Legislature's Decision to Audit State Parks August 8 RBOC is supporting the decision of the Joint Legislative Audit Committee [JLAC] this afternoon to accept the bipartisan request of Assembly Members Beth Gaines and Paul Fong, and Senator Noreen Evans, to conduct a comprehensive audit of the finances of the state Department of Parks and Recreation [State Parks]. This action follows numerous accounts revealing that State Parks management staff took advantage of a costly vacation buyout, and that State Parks had $54 million in surplus money hidden for more than a decade. Stated RBOC President Cleve Hardaker: “the Legislature has taken prudent action to initiate an independent audit of State Parks vacation buyouts and hidden surplus funds. This audit will investigate how the funds were generated, where they have been hidden, how they have accumulated, and how the state can take corrective action to rectify this situation and prevent similar actions in the future. The State Auditor will begin this process immediately.” Continued Hardaker: “The allegations of financial mismanagement at State Parks are of great concern. California’s boaters provide significant funding to State Parks through park entrance fees as well as fuel tax dollars totaling close to $30 million per year. It is essential that boaters have confidence that the funds we pay the state are used wisely and effectively. We are optimistic that this audit will provide the transparency and accountability that are essential if we are able to reestablish boater confidence and trust in State Parks.” With this action by the JLAC, the State Auditor will conduct an audit that will begin immediately. While an audit of this scope typically takes an expected seven months [2,900 hours] to complete, the State Auditor will attempt to re-allocate resources to expedite the effort. The state Department of Parks and Recreation has expressed its support for the audit and its commitment to fully cooperate. Boaters Urge Full Investigation and Accounting of Funds Provided to State Parks July 20 Responding to breaking news reports alleging $53 million in hidden funds at the state Department of Parks and Recreation, the California boater advocacy organization Recreational Boaters of California is urging state policy leaders and legislators to conduct a thorough investigation and audit of boater funds provided to the state Department of Parks and Recreation. Stated RBOC President Cleve Hardaker: “These news reports are of great concern. California’s boaters provide significant funding to State Parks through park entrance fees as well as fuel tax dollars totaling close to $30 million per year. It is essential that boaters have confidence that the funds we pay the state are used wisely and effectively.” Continued Hardaker: “We encourage boaters to contact their legislators in the Senate and Assembly, urging them to take action and demand a full accounting of boater funds that have been directed to State Parks.” To find your legislator click here. The integrity of State Parks is even more important to boaters following the July 3 enactment of the Governor’s Reorganization Proposal Number 2 [GRP #2] that places the Department of Boating and Waterways into State Parks as a division, effective July 1, 2013. Hardaker emphasized that: “We will remain engaged and vigilant on these fiscal issues over the course of the next twelve months, and additional action including legislation may be warranted. RBOC will continue our advocacy efforts to preserve and enhance the interests of the recreational boating community.” Governor Signs Legislation to Resurrect Boating Commission, Add Boater to Parks Commission July 17 Governor Jerry Brown has signed into law AB 737 [Buchanan], legislation modifying the Governor’s Reorganization Proposal #2 [GRP #2] to provide enhanced protections for California boaters. AB 737 resurrects the Boating and Waterways Commission with expanded activities, and adds a recreational boater to the State Parks and Recreation Commission. See full article below. Legislators Move New Legislation
to Resurrect Boating Commission, Add Boater to Parks Commission July 3 A bipartisan effort by California legislators is moving to the desk of Governor Jerry Brown new legislation to modify the Governor’s Reorganization Proposal #2 [GRP #2] and provide enhanced protections for California boaters. As proposed by the Governor in January, the GRP #2 would reconstitute the Department of Boating and Waterways as a Division of Boating and Waterways within the state Department of Parks and Recreation, and would also eliminate the Boating and Waterways Commission. RBOC and other stakeholders have been advocating for the preservation of the boating department and commission. The new legislation is AB 737 co-authored by Assembly Member Joan Buchanan [D-San Ramon] and Katcho Achadjian [R-San Luis Obispo]. The bill would revise the GRP #2 to resurrect the Boating and Waterways Commission with expanded activities, and to add a recreational boater to the State Parks and Recreation Commission. Stated RBOC President Cleve Hardaker: “We are pleased that legislators are stepping forward to revise the GRP. Boaters have been making a strong case for the preservation of transparency and accountability that would otherwise be lost with the elimination of the Boating and Waterways Commission. We maintain our opposition to the provisions that would turn the boating department into a division of state parks. The boating community deserves a dedicated department, totally funded by boaters, with a Director focused on boating.” Hardaker continued: “The leadership of several legislators has made the new AB 737 and its revisions possible, and the boating community is very appreciative of their dedicated efforts.” Additional legislators who have spoken to protect boater interests include Senator Ted Lieu [D-Torrance] as well as Assembly Members Bill Berryhill [R-Stockton], Betsy Butler [D-Torrance], Bonnie Lowenthal [D-Long Beach], and Ben Hueso [D-Chula Vista]. The provisions of GRP #2 that will reconstitute the Department of Boating and Waterways as the Division of Boating and Waterways are expected to be adopted on July 3, with an operational effective date of July 3, 2013. The statutory changes of the GRP do not alter the current programs and services provided by the department, nor do they change the collection or use of boater-generated fees and taxes. Noted Hardaker: “We will remain engaged and vigilant as these changes are implemented over the course of the next twelve months, and additional legislation may be warranted. It remains critical that boaters have confidence that the funds we pay the state are used wisely and effectively. RBOC will continue our advocacy efforts to preserve and enhance the interests of the recreational boating community.” RBOC Vice President – North Jack Michael to be interviewed on Sunday, June 10 @ 6:15 am Recreational Boaters of California Vice President Jack Michael has accepted the invitation to be interviewed on the Outdoors with Craig Hanson show and discuss the efforts of California’s boating community to preserve the Department of Boating and Waterways and the Boating and Waterways Commission. The interview will be conducted at 6:15 am on Sunday, June 10. The program can be heard live at www.outdoors1050.com. Outdoors with Craig Hanson on KNBR-1050 is the San Francisco Bay Area’s only outdoor show. The 45-minute program airing 6 a.m. on Sunday morning brings alive the traditions of fishing and outdoor exploration. Mr. Michael will discuss the Save Cal Boating effort and timely actions boaters can take to contact their legislators in support of the boating department and commission. He also plans to discuss the status of the state legislation addressing copper-based anti-fouling surface bottom paints. RBOC Supports Author’s Decision Not to Pursue Copper Paint Bill May 31 Recreational Boaters of California [RBOC] supports the decision Senator Christine Kehoe [D-San Diego] has made not to pursue SB 623, legislation she is authoring to address copper-based anti-fouling surfaces. Noted RBOC President Cleve Hardaker: “RBOC has been engaged on SB 623 since the introduction of this significant measure, advocating our concerns with the provisions of the bill and its tremendous impact on recreational boaters across the state. In all probability, the bill would have resulted in a ban on the use of copper-based hull paints by recreational boaters.” RBOC has been actively lobbying the State Legislature and the executive branch of state government as the bill has been considered, testifying in committee hearings and negotiating with the author, sponsors and other interests. Explained Hardaker: “Throughout the process, RBOC has continued our position that the consideration of restrictions or bans on the use of copper-based anti-fouling surfaces must be based upon science, and that any ban on boater use of copper-based anti-fouling surfaces must be accompanied by findings that alternatives are available, affordable and effective.” Hardaker added: “New science and methodology calls into question the basic premise of new laws of state-wide application such as SB 623 that would in all likelihood establish a ban on the use of copper-based anti-fouling paints on recreational vessels within the next few years. This ban would have applied even in areas where copper has not been found to present a situation requiring regulatory action. Senator Kehoe’s decision not to pursue legislation at this time is positive, as it will enable the new science and methodology to be taken into consideration before laws are enacted.” Save Cal Boating Update May 31 RBOC Urges Legislation Preserving Boating Department and Commission Recreational Boaters of California is urging Members of the Senate and Assembly to pursue legislation concurrent to Governor Brown’s Government Reorganization Plan No. 2 [GRP #2] to preserve the Department of Boating and Waterways and the Boating and Waterways Commission. “Boaters are encouraged to contact their representatives and request that they pursue legislation preserving the boating department and commission,” stated RBOC President Cleve Hardaker. “Timing is of the essence as the GRP #2 will take effect automatically on July 3. It is critical that the Legislature take contemporaneous action on behalf of boating.” GRP #2 is a 378-page proposal that would enact a number of eliminations, reorganizations and consolidations of state agencies and departments. The key provisions for boating would merge the Department of Boating and Waterways into the Department of Parks and Recreation and eliminate the Boating and Waterways Commission. “The entire boating community supports Cal Boating, and we must speak with a loud and clear voice today,” continued Hardaker. RBOC’s key points in support of the department and commission are:
Links to Save Cal Boating Columns and Editorials: Mike Whitehead, Newport Beach Independent Newspaper: The Log Newspaper: Save Cal Boating Enters Critical Phase – Boater Action Needed Right Away May 29 Recreational Boaters of California [RBOC] is calling on all boaters to take action now and: Go to this link that has been set up by the national boater advocacy organization BoatUS, and send your message: click here • It is inconceivable to me as a California resident and taxpayer that the California State government would dissolve one of the very few organizations which is well-managed, is paying its own way, and not using any of the General Fund.
[click here] for RBOC Save Cal Boating Wednesdays Memo & Invite The download above is the invitation and sign-up form to participate in one of our Save Cal Boating Wednesdays starting next Wednesday, May 23. Cleve Hardaker [click here] for RBOC Save Cal Boating WednesdaysMemo & Invite Save Cal Boating Update Additional Boater Efforts will be Needed Following a lengthy public hearing by the Little Hoover Commission [LHC] on April 25, RBOC is updating its strategy and advocacy efforts in light of the distinct possibility that the Commission will recommend approval of the Governor’s proposed reorganization plan including the elimination of the Department of Boating and Waterways [DBW] and the transfer of its functions to the Department of Parks and Recreation. RBOC anticipates that the key to the next phase will involve additional, direct lobbying in the Capitol, as well as boater contacts with their members of the Senate and Assembly, in opposition to the Governor’s proposed elimination of DBW. Of note from the April 25 LHC hearing, the Commissioners acknowledged that the proposed elimination of DBW [out of the total 28 reorganization proposals] had the highest turn-out and level of stakeholder interest. The Commissioners reacted to the strong position of the DBW supporters with probing questions raised by several individual commissioners. Witnesses were able to raise each of the issues in support of continuation of the department. RBOC witnesses included Vice President North Jack Michael, Past President - Director Lenora Clark, Director Mia Bernt, and Director of Government Relations Jerry Desmond, Jr.. Subsequent to the public hearing, the LHC held a separate business meeting in which six [out of a total of thirteen] commissioners discussed a draft outline of the Commission’s approach. From the discussions during the subsequent LHC meeting, it is likely that the Commission will be recommending that the Legislature approve the Governor’s comprehensive reorganization proposal with specific notations and recommendations. The majority of the commissioners present expressed views contrary to those advocated by RBOC and the many supporters of DBW. These included:
The majority of the commissioners present also expressed the position that there could be a specific notation accompanying an LHC recommendation in support of the proposed elimination of DBW and merger of its functions into State Parks. The notation could be that: [a] an advisory commission should be established that provides transparency but does not have approval authority over loans and grants; and that [b] the chair of that advisory commission also have a seat on the parks commission. A minority of the commissioners present expressed the position that a statement should be included in the LHC review, stating that attention should be paid to the dedication of boater-generated funds to programs and services that directly benefit the boating community. Moving forward, the LHC staff plans to provide a draft of the LHC recommendations by May 8, for review by Commissioners on May 11, and for possible approval by the LHC on May 22. RBOC is preparing strategies for these upcoming events leading to a possible LHC vote on May 22, as well as subsequent consideration of the recommendations by the State Legislature. The LHC recommendations are advisory and not binding on the Legislature. Actions by individual boaters will again be essential. One house of the Legislature must vote down the Governor’s comprehensive reorganization plan in order for it not to take effect. Save Cal Boating Updates Little Hoover Commission Hearing Set Wednesday, April 25 Boaters are encouraged to attend and testify in opposition to the Governor's proposed elimination of the Department of Boating and Waterways at the Little Hoover Commission hearing scheduled as follows: Wednesday, April 25, 2012 9:00 am – 11:00 am -- Hearing 11:00 am – 1:00 pm -- Public Comments Employment Development Department Auditorium 722 Capitol Mall, Sacramento, CA 95814 [click here] for the details on this hearing as well as the other two days of Commission hearings on the Governor's entire reorganization proposal. [click here] to submit your comments to the Commission. Add your Organization to our List of Opponents Updated April 2 Please add to our growing "list of organizations opposing the Governor's proposal to eliminate the Department of Boating and Waterways." Just send an email to rboc@rboc.org, with the subject line: "add us to the list". In the body of the message, provide us with your organization's name and confirm that you are authorized to provide us with permission to include the organization on the list. We'll keep you updated with copies of the list as the Save Cal Boating effort continues. [click here] for the current list of organizations opposing the proposed elimination of the Department of Boating and Waterways [Cal Boating]. Governor's Plan to Eliminate Cal Boating to be Considered in Formal Reorganization Process March 30 The Governor has formally submited his government reorganization proposals to the Little Hoover Commission, which has 30 days to prepare its recommendations. click here for the Governor's press release click here for the Governor's letter and sumary click here for the full [378 page] text March 29 Following March 21 and 28 hearings in budget subcommittees in each house of the California State Legislature, it is now anticipated that the Governor's proposal to eliminate the Department of Boating and Waterways [Cal Boating] wil be - at least for the near future - "left open" in the budget process and pursued instead as a formal government reorganization plan. The issue could return to the budget process. A formal reorganization proposal would take up to sixty days following submission of a draft proposal to the state Little Hoover Commission [LHC]. the LHC would prepare a recommendation within 30 days. At least one house of the legislature would have to vote the proposal down in order to defeat it. RBOC and several other boating and industry groups testified in both subcommittee hearings, and we are continuing our lobbying efforts agaist the proposal during this next, critical phase. March 21 and 28 Hearings on Proposal to Eliminate Cal Boating March 16 Update The proposal to eliminate the Department of Boating and Waterways [Cal Boating] may be removed from the state budget process and pursued instead as a formal government reorganization plan. This could mean that the proposal is not heard or voted upon in the March 21 and 28 hearings below. RBOC is still encouraging boaters to contact committee members and to attend the hearings in support of Cal Boating, as its budget remains scheduled for consideration in these hearings. Boaters with legislators on the budget subcommittees in the Senate and Assembly are encouraged to contact their representatives and urge them to vote "no" on the Governor's proposal to eliminate the Department of Boating and Waterways [Cal Boating]. Boaters are encouraged to attend these initial hearings and, if given the opportunity, to testify against the proposal. Wednesday, March 21 - 2:30 pm Hearing - Capitol Room 2040: Senate Budget Subcomittee #2 on Resources, Environmental Protection, Energy and Transportation Committee Members [click on names to go to their sites]:
Wednesday, March 28 - 9:00 am Hearing - Capitol Room 447: Assembly Budget Subcommittee #3 on Resources and Transportation Committee Members [click on the names to go to their sites]:
To Identify Your Legislator Click Here Add your Organization to our List of Opponents Updated March 15 Please add to our growing "list of organizations opposing the Governor's proposal to eliminate the Department of Boating and Waterways." Just send an email to rboc@rboc.org, with the subject line: "add us to the list". In the body of the message, provide us with your organization's name and confirm that you are authorized to provide us with permission to include the organization on the list. We'll keep you updated with copies of the list as the Save Cal Boating effort continues. [Click Here] for the current list of organizations opposing the proposed elimination of the Department of Boating and Waterways [Cal Boating]. Another 1,000 Letters Delivered & More on the Way
RBOC Director of Government Affairs Jerry Desmond, Jr. delivered another stack of letters to the Capitol Office of Governor Jerry Brown on March 15, expressing opposition to the proposal to eliminate Cal Boating. 2,233 letters have been delivered to-date. [Click Here] for the cover letter from RBOC President Cleve Hardaker. More letters are encouraged. [Click Here] for the sample letter and instructions. The Log Publishes Editorial supporting preservation of Cal Boating. Click Here to read the editorial: Don't Take our Boating Funds SoCal Boater Forum Held February 29 at Dana Point Yacht Club Save Cal Boating a Key Topic Dozens of members of the boating community attended this boater forum. Fish, kayak, sail, cruise, race, paddle, saltwater and freshwater fans alike were able to learn more about the challenges pending in Sacramento that will impact our boating world. The key discussion topic was the effort to save the Department of Boating and Waterways [Cal Boating], with information on the Governor's proposal, the programs and services Cal Boating provides to boating, and steps boaters can take to help. [Click Here] for the entire presentation. Sign-ups Save Cal Boating February 21 Sign-up now if you would like to attend the legislative hearings in the State Capitol where legislators will consider the Governor's proposal to eliminate the Department of Boating and Waterways [Cal Boating], and would like RBOC to let you know when the hearings are going to take place. RBOC Supporting California Bill to Combat Invasive Species February 13 RBOC is lobbying the Assembly Committee on Water, Parks & Wildlife in support of AB 1540, legislation introduced by Assembly Member Joan Buchanan [D-San Ramon] that would allow the Department of Boating and Waterways [Cal Boating] to treat South American spongeplant [Limnobium laevigatum] in the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta [Delta]. [click here] for a copy of our support letter. RBOC Delivers 1,227 Boater Letters to Governor Brown - more on the way Save Cal Boating Update
RBOC Director of Government Affairs Jerry Desmond, Jr. enters the State Capitol on February 9 with 1,227 letters written by boaters, clubs, cities and businesses to Governor Jerry Brown. The letters urge the Governor to withrdaw the proposal to eliminate the Department of Boating and Waterways. These letters have also been submitted to Senate President pro Tempore Darrell Steinberg, Senate Republican Leader Bob Huff, Assembly Speaker John Perez, and Assembly Republican Leader Connie Conway. [Click Here] for the RBOC cover letter from President Cleve Hardaker that accompanies the boater letters. Boaters are encouraged to submit letters and speak up to Save Cal Boating. See articles and links below: Governor Proposes to Eliminate Department of Boating and Waterways Boaters Urged to Sign and Submit Letters of Opposition January 11 Recreational Boaters of California [RBOC] is urging boaters to speak up in opposition to Governor Brown's proposal to eliminate the state Department of Boating and Waterways [Cal Boating] and re-constitute the department as a division within the Department of Parks and Recreation. Click Here for Information and to Take Action New Scientific Work Raises Questions on Copper Rules January 4 A scientific presentation given in November of last year by the University of San Diego [USD] and Space and Naval Warfare Systems Command [SPAWARS] at The Society of Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry [SETAC] in Boston raises serious questions about the facts upon which regional and statewide actions are being taken that restrict the use of copper-based antifouling surfaces on boat hulls. RBOC Boater Brief November 2011 The year 2011 has been a very busy time for RBOC. Many complicated and complex issues involving California boaters have been addressed. In fact, the future use of copper based bottom paints in California has and will continue to receive national attention. SB 623 [Kehoe] Copper-based Anti-fouling Paints August 22 On August 8th RBOC received the following information from Senator Kehoe's office concerning the RBOC-opposed SB 623 addressing marine anti-fouling paint. "After much deliberation, Senator Kehoe has decided to hold SB 623 in the Assembly Appropriations Committee. It is now a two-year bill and will not be heard in that committee on August 17, 2011; however, we do plan on moving the bill next year." Senator Kehoe also stated that "we have received productive input from state agencies, the Governor's office and other sources. We want to use the extra time we'll have during the fall to consider that information...." This is excellent news for all boaters in California. It gives us additional time to work with Senator Kehoe on the contents of the proposed legislation. It also provides more time for paint manufacturers to make readily available and cost effective alternatives available to boaters. This should also provide time to test these substitutes and get them on retailers' shelves. RBOC will continue to be engaged on this issue, advocating that any deadline upon which the state's recreational boaters will not be able to use copper-based anti-fouling paints does not take effect until there are alternatives that are effective, available and affordable. August 8 After much deliberation, Senator Kehoe has decided to hold SB 623 in the Assembly Appropriations Committee. It is now a two-year bill and will not be heard in that committee on August 17; however, the Senator plans on moving the bill next year. Over the last couple of weeks, the Senator has received productive input from state agencies, the Governor’s office and other sources. The author desires to use the extra time available during the fall to consider that information and continue working with all stakeholders on the bill. RBOC will continue to be engaged on this issue. July 11 RBOC is continuing our lobbying efforts to protect the ability of boaters to utilize effective and affordable anti-fouling paints on the hulls of our vessels. RBOC Vice President-North Jack Michael recently testified regarding SB 623 before the Assembly Environmental Safety and Toxic Materials Committee expressing our opposition to the bill unless it is further amended. His testimony can be seen on below. SB 623 passed the committee and next proceeds to the Assembly Appropriations Committee. June 29 RBOC is continuing its advocacy efforts as state legislation is considered on copper-based anti-fouling paints. SB 623 [Kehoe] passed the Assembly Committee on Environmental Safety and Toxic Materials on June 28. The bill proceeds to the Assembly Committee on Appropriations. Following is the testimony of RBOC Vice President-North Jack Michael from the June 28 Hearing: Good afternoon Mr. Chairman and Members, I am Jack Michael, Vice President of Recreational Boaters of California, which is opposed to SB 623 unless the bill is amended. RBOC appreciates the efforts Senator Kehoe, the sponsors, and the proponents of SB 623 have been making with us and others with an interest in this measure, and we will continue those discussions in a good faith effort to resolve our concerns.. We acknowledge that SB 623 was amended on June 21. Most significantly, the bill as now amended would not enact an outright ban on the application of copper-based anti-fouling paints, or on the sale of recreational boats with those paints. SB 623 would allow for the application of paints using low-leaching, low-level copper. We also note that paint manufacturer representatives are stating that there will be a variety of available paints prior to this deadline. Available, effective, and affordable paints would be very helpful to boaters. SB 623 was also amended on June 21 to include provisions establishing a ban on boater application of paints containing copper, sometime after January 1, 2019, if the State Water Board determines that trends are not indicating that water quality objectives will be met. We are concerned that such a ban could leave boaters with no options, and that the ban would only apply to recreational vessels. As the committee analysis notes, the bill targets recreational vessels. RBOC is therefore urging that SB 623 be amended to include provisions:
We also agree with the points made in the committee analysis that the bill as currently drafted leaves several important questions unanswered, and that the bill should provide specificity. These include:
Thank you. June 23 RBOC is continuing its lobbying efforts to protect California boaters as state legislation is considered that would impact the ability of boaters to utilize anti-fouling paints containing copper. RBOC is engaged with Senator Kehoe, the author of SB 623, and all stakeholders. The Senator amended the bill on June 21 in advance of a June 28 hearing in the Assembly Environmental Safety and Toxic Materials Committee. Most significantly, SB 623 as now amended would not enact an outright ban on the application of copper-based anti-fouling paints, or on the sale of recreational boats with those paints. As now worded, SB 623 would allow for the application of paints using low-leaching, low-level copper. Beginning January 1, 2015, boaters would be prohibited from applying paints containing copper unless they meet that criteria. Also beginning January 1, 2015, paints containing copper on new boats would have to meet that criteria. Paint manufacturer representatives are stating that there will be a variety of available paints prior to this deadline. SB 623 was also amended on June 21 to include provisions establishing a January 1, 2019 ban on boater application of paints containing copper if the State Water Board determines that trends are not indicating that water quality objectives will be met. RBOC is concerned that such a ban could leave boaters with no options, and that the ban would only apply to recreational vessels. [a] Ensuring that any ban on the application of copper-based anti-fouling paints is accompanied by a finding that alternatives are available, affordable, and effective; and [b] Ensuring that any ban would apply to all vessels that contribute copper to the waterways. May 24 - Copper-based anti-fouling surfaces Boaters are encouraged to take action now to express their opposition to SB 623 [Kehoe] to their representatives in the California State Senate. The bill is expected to pass the Senate Appropriations Committee this Thursday, May 26, without a vote and without testimony. The bill will then be taken up on the Senate Floor [Senate Third Reading] between May 27 and June 3. The deadline for the bill to pass the Floor is Friday, June 3. This bill would prohibit recreational boaters state-wide from using copper-based anti-fouling paints on the hulls of their boats to prevent marine organisms from growing on their hulls. SB 623 would place into law a statewide ban of copper based hull coatings. The bill would impose: 1. A January 1, 2015 ban on the sale of new recreational boats with anti-fouling paint
containing copper, and RBOC is opposed to SB 623 as amended on April 25 unless the
bill is revised to ensure that any deadline upon which the state’s recreational boaters will not be
able to use copper-based anti-fouling paints does not take effect until there are alternatives that You may download the the following: NOTE RBOC Lobbying Against Proposed Copper Paint Ban RBOC is continuing our “oppose unless amended” position on SB 623 [Kehoe] as the bill proceeds to the Senate Appropriations Committee. If Senate Bill 623 were to be enacted into law, it would establish two bans: • After 1/1/2015: Ban on the sale of new boats with copper bottom paint. • After 1/1/2019: Ban on the use of antifouling paint containing copper on recreational boats. [Download Here] the RBOC position letter in advance of the May 16 scheduled hearing in the Senate Appropriations Committee. RBOC Lobbied, Testified in Senate EQ Committee on May 2 SB 623 was heard in the Senate Environmental Quality Committee on Monday, May 2. RBOC lobbied the committee in advance of the hearing, and Vice President-South Cleve Hardaker testified. [Download Here] RBOC’s testimony at the hearing. Senator Kehoe presented the bill and made repeated mention of her intention to work with all stakeholders including opponents. RBOC is continuing our dialogue with the author and proponents of SB 623. Letters of opposition received from over 300 individual boaters were submitted to the committee. In addition, BoatUS informed its members with Senators on committee, generating hundreds of contacts between constituent boaters and their Senators. The bill passed the Senate Environmental Quality Committee with a 5-1, party-line vote [Democrats voting aye, Republicans voting naye]. CAL BOATING BUDGET RBOC is continuing our lobbying efforts to ensure that boater fuel tax and registration fees paid to the state are dedicated to programs and services benefiting the boating community. Recent developments in the State Capitol present the possible scenario that the state budget resolution could include provisions directing significant boater fuel tax dollars to the state's General Fund. Background Governor Jerry Brown and the Legislature are working to address the state budget and a projected $26.6 billion deficit over the next fifteen months. Negotiations are taking place to determine whether bipartisan support can be obtained in the Legislature to place the Governor's proposed budget solution before voters this June. That proposal includes budget cuts together with an extension of certain sales, car and income taxes that otherwise expire on July 1. Some Republican legislators are requesting that the budget deal include additional items such as state spending caps, environmental and regulatory law reforms, state worker pension restructuring, and other provisions in return for their support. The situation is fluid and the outcome remains undetermined as of this posting. Boating The efforts to address the state budget deficit could directly impact Cal Boating. First, there is tremendous pressure to identify funding sources for major programs and services. Second, Cal Boating is in the process of updating and improving many aspects of its small craft harbor and recreational marina loan program. Legislators have expressed an interest in ensuring that these actions occur prior to approving additional loans within the department's budget. SB 69, the Conference Committee version of the Budget Bill, does not include Cal Boating funding for boating facilities loans or grants for the next fifteen months. This is not final, and loans and grants may be considered in future action. In addition, the budget bills in contention would provide another loan of boater monies from the Harbors and Watercraft Revolving Fund [HWRF] to the state's General Fund. This new loan would be $17 million, to be repaid by June 30, 2014. Previous loans were made in the amount of $29 million [fiscal year 2008-2009, to be repaid by June 30, 2013] and $5 million [fiscal year 2009-2010, with no repayment date]. The total of all three loans would be $51 million. As currently proposed, Cal Boating would be provided a budget of approximately $50 million, which would provide funding for a number of programs and services including boating law enforcement funding, boater education, yacht and ship broker licensing, beach erosion control, control \ eradication of invasive species, and abandoned vessel abatement. RBOC RBOC acknowledges and appreciates the fiscal challenges facing the state, and the stresses being place on essential programs and services. At the same time, boaters continue to pay significant taxes and fees with the understanding that they will be utilized for boater programs and services directly benefiting boaters. In the current state fiscal climate, it is critical that the boating community continue to advocate for the dedication of boater taxes and fees to programs and services that benefit boaters. It is also important that the boating community identify and prioritize the boating programs and services that are essential to boaters, and educate policy-makers including the Governor and State Legislature as to the importance of those governmental activities. RBOC is actively engaged in these processes. RBOC is lobbying in the Capitol in support of a proposed $68 million budget for the state boating department [Cal Boating] as the Governor and Legislature grapple with a $28 billion budget deficit. RBOC President Linda Bendsen testified in the Assembly Budget Subcommittee on February 2: “Our statewide advocacy organization supports full-funding of Cal Boating as the department’s budget is being considered in committee, and efforts to ensure that the boat fuel tax dollars paid by boaters are directed to facilities, programs and services that provide direct benefit to the boating public.” Legislative budget hearings are in response to Governor Jerry Brown’s proposal that the state act now to accomplish $12.5 billion in cuts and to place an extension of previously-enacted tax increases on the state-wide ballot for voter approval in July. Decisions made in the state budget impact the utilization of boater fees and taxes for numerous programs and services including boating infrastructure and access, law enforcement, education, abandoned vessel abatement, invasive species infestation prevention, and pollution prevention. [Read the Proposed Cal Boating Budget Here] Boat U.S. has appointed five new members to its National Advisory Council. RBOC 2011 President Linda Bendsen will be serving on the Council as one of the new appointees. Read more: (Download Here) RBOC is requesting the appointment of Linda Bendsen to serve on the Delta Protection Advisory Committee (DPAC) that will provide recommendations to the Delta Protection Commission on the diverse interests of the Delta. Read more: (Download Here) RBOC is requesting that President Obama take action to stop the Environmental Protection Agency from raising the amount of ethanol in our gasoline from today’s 10 percent (E10) to 15 percent (E15) – a 50 percent increase. EPA should not act hastily on this issue. It should wait for the results of thorough and objective scientific testing on the impact of E15 on all gasoline-powered engines. Read more: (Download Here) RBOC thanks Cal Recycle and the other involved State Agencies for the successful completion of the Contra Costa County Abandoned Vessel/Water Hazard Illegal Disposal Site Clean-up Project recently completed. The clean-up of a long festering problem of illegal disposal along the levees of the Fisherman Cut waterway in the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta is a major improvement to an important navigable waterway. Read more: (Download Here) RBOC has requested that the Fish and Game Commission hold additional scoping meetings regarding the South Coast’s Marine Protected Areas Draft Environmental Impact Report [DEIR]. Read more: (Download Here) RBOC is urging boaters to oppose the proposal of the California State Water Resources Control Board [SWRCB] to establish a statewide requirement that marinas and clubs with 10 or more slips and moorings obtain a state permit [termed a Coastal Marina Permit] and comply with many new requirements including extensive testing and reporting at a projected annual cost of hundreds of thousands of dollars. Boaters statewide should be concerned and take action... Recreational Boaters of California [RBOC] is a nonprofit governmental advocacy organization that works to protect and enhance the interests of the state’s recreational boaters before the legislative and executive branches of state and local government. RBOC was formed as a statewide organization in 1968 and from that date forward has continued its commitment to promoting the enjoyment, protection, and responsible use of our waterways. • Protecting your fuel tax dollars from diversion |
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