MarylandHB 07192025 Regular SessionHouseWALLET

Natural Resources - State Boat Act - Alterations

Sponsored By: Sponsor information unavailable

Signed by Governor

Natural Resources - GenerallyAccidentsAnnotated Code of MarylandBoats and ShipsChildren (4-12)Classifications and DesignationsConstructionEmergencies -see also- PandemicsFees -see also- Attys' Fees; Devt Fees & TaxesFormsHearingsLeases and RentLicenses -see also- AB Lic; Certifications; DrLic; PermitsMarinas -see also- Piers and DocksMinors -see also- Age of Majority; YouthMotor Vehicles -see also- Aband Veh; Ambulances; Buses; etc.Natural Resources -see also- Coal; For&Pks; Rivers; etc.NoticesRevenue and Taxes -see also- (specific tax)Rules and RegulationsSafety -see also- Occupational SafetySpecial EventsTimeTitles -see also- DeedsWater -see also- Coastal Bays; Riv,Str,Lks; Wastewater; etc.Waterway Improvement Fund

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

9 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 5 costs, 2 mixed.

Updated life jacket rules for kids

Beginning October 1, 2025, children under 13 must wear Coast Guard-approved life jackets aboard boats under 21 feet. This applies to recreational use and boats leased, rented, or chartered for noncommercial use. Jackets must fit correctly, be in good working condition, and be properly secured. Operators cannot operate or allow operation without meeting these requirements. Approved jackets are no longer limited to Types I, II, III, or V.

More funding flexibility for boating projects

Beginning October 1, 2025, the Waterway Improvement Fund can fully fund eligible public boating construction costing up to $500,000, formerly $250,000. Qualifying marina construction benefiting the general boating public can receive full funding up to $1 million. Above either threshold, the Fund can cover no more than half the extra cost; funding is not guaranteed. Without legislative approval, Natural Resources can spend $350,000 per fiscal year on small projects, capped at $25,000 per project. Those limits were $125,000 and $5,000; the department can also spend up to $100,000 on boating safety and education.

Higher fees for Maryland boat owners

Beginning October 1, 2025, vessel registration applications cost $70 instead of $24; replacement or corrected certificates cost $20 instead of $2. The fee exemption ends for boats 16 feet or shorter with motors of 7.5 horsepower or less. Emergency rescue and fire boats belonging to Maryland fire departments or rescue squads remain fee-exempt. Coast Guard-documented pleasure boats used mainly on Maryland waters need two-year use stickers costing $70, formerly $10; replacements cost $20. Issuing, transferring, replacing, or correcting a vessel title costs $20 instead of $2.

Broader safety duties for boat rentals

Beginning October 1, 2025, rental safety rules cover any boat under 16 feet rented, leased, or chartered for under 24 hours. Coverage is no longer limited to the former Class A category. Boats must be seaworthy and equipped for the waters where they operate. The owner, agent, or employee must hold a boating safety certificate approved by the Department of Natural Resources.

Higher fees for boat dealers

Beginning October 1, 2025, Maryland raises the manufacturer and boat dealer license fee ceiling from $25 to $50. The Department of Natural Resources sets the actual fee, which cannot exceed $50. Each application for a manufacturer's or dealer's certificate of number costs $70 instead of $24. Certificates last up to two years and expire December 31 of the year after issuance.

Emergency boats must renew registrations sooner

Beginning October 1, 2025, Maryland fire departments and rescue squads must renew emergency rescue and fire boat registrations every two years. Previously, renewal was required every three years. These boats remain exempt from registration fees.

Fewer public notice rights on boating rules

Beginning October 1, 2025, Natural Resources no longer must advertise State Boat Act rules in two daily newspapers and one weekly. The law removes the requirement to publish those notices at least 45 days before rules take effect. It also removes the required hearing when at least 50 Maryland residents petition at least 15 days before that date. These changes remove those specific notice and hearing rights, not every rulemaking procedure.

Optional boat decals bring fees and duties

Beginning October 1, 2025, owners can apply for a $12 decal for qualifying boats without motors. Boats must be used mainly on Maryland waters and fall outside Maryland registration and use-sticker requirements. The decal lasts up to two years and must be displayed on the boat's exterior. After a transfer, the former owner must notify Natural Resources within 30 days. New owners planning continued main use on Maryland waters can apply and pay the fee.

New safety controls for Maryland boaters

Beginning October 1, 2025, Natural Resources can set or change speed zones by public notice near construction, events, accidents, or emergencies. It must find a public safety risk and that delay conflicts with the public interest. It can also control, limit, or restrict boat movement in areas designated by the Coast Guard or another federal agency. The law defines personal watercraft as vessels powered mainly by water jets or other machinery and operated sitting, standing, or kneeling on them. Boats designed for operation from inside the hull are excluded from that category.

Sponsors & Cosponsors

Cosponsors

There are no cosponsors for this bill.

Roll Call Votes

All Roll Calls

Yes: 134 • No: 52

Senate vote • 4/3/2025

Third Reading Passed

Yes: 34 • No: 13

House vote • 3/12/2025