RBOC supports the dedication of boater fees and taxes for programs and services that directly benefit boaters.
We therefore appreciate the decision made by the Governor and Legislature with the state budget for fiscal year 2022-2023 to refrain from significantly increasing boat registration fees and convening a stakeholder process.
This public process of engagement has been underway for the past several months, with three subcommittees led by Boating and Waterways Commissioners and supported by the expert staff of the Division of Boating and Waterways. A wide variety of boating community stakeholders are actively participating.
This process is providing the opportunity for all interested parties and the state to review the expenditure of more than $100 million each year in fuel tax dollars attributable to boats, the most effective and efficient use of those funds, to identify approaches for increasing the small percentage of those monies currently directed to boating programs, and to enhance the financial participation of non-boaters who benefit from the current and future programs.
RBOC is encouraged with the progress being made and the consideration that is being given to the suggestions made by the boating community in our July 14 letter [click here] and in the input being provided by organizations and individuals throughout the subcommittee discussions.
The full commission may consider finalization of its recommendations at its November meeting. The commission’s input will inform the Division of Boating and Waterways and the Department of Parks and Recreation as a report is prepared for submission to the Legislature.