Florida Governor DeSantis Approves ‘Boater Freedom Act’: Key Details You Should Know

PANAMA CITY, Fla. — In a press conference held in Panama City on Monday, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signed the ‘Boater Freedom Act,’ a Senate bill intended to ensure that “Florida boaters are free from excessive government interference,” among other aims.

This legislation, known as SB 1388, restricts local authorities in Florida from banning gas-powered boats, prohibits boat safety inspections without a valid reason, and instructs the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) to establish a five-year safety inspection decal program connected to vessel registration.

Prior to signing the bill, DeSantis mentioned that law enforcement previously had the authority to conduct random boat inspections as part of “safety compliance” checks, noting that this frequently caused unnecessary tension between the public and some law enforcement members.

The bill will also maintain statewide protections of wake speeds, manatee zones and seagrass areas, according to the governor’s office.

As for the creation of the safety inspection decal program, DeSantis’ office said the the bill will direct FWC to work with tax collectors to proactively provide a “Florida Freedom Boater” decal at registration. The decal will indicate to law enforcement that a boater has taken the necessary steps to maintain proper safety requirements.

“Florida is the boating and fishing capital of the world—and the Boater Freedom Act will ensure that this remains the case,” DeSantis said during the press conference.

DeSantis’ office said the bill is the culmination of the governor’s boater freedom initiative proposal announced in February of this year.

On Monday, DeSantis also signed HB 735, which provides additional funding for public boat ramps, parking and marina programs through FWC. The governor’s office said these funds will “ensure greater access to public waters.”

The Boater Freedom Act and HB 735 will both take effect July 1.