HB548 is Killed - Safety Education and Minimum Age of Operation

[Bear Islander]

HB548 "AN ACT relative to boater safety education and relative to the minimum age for operation of motorized vessels." was killed by a 3 to 0 vote by the Senate Transportation Committee.

This legislation would have prevented people under age 12 from operating power boats alone. As of now there is no age limit to operate a power boat 25 horsepower or less.

This legislation would also have required boating safety certificates for all operators 12 to 16 years old.

Read the text:
http://www.gencourt.state.nh.us/legislation/2011/HB0548.html

[lawn psycho]

Hunter education is recommended between the ages of 12-16. I don't understand why you would be opposed to the bill?

We don't allow 12 year olds to drive cars.
If you're going to be on the water, you should know the rules.

[Bear Islander]

Hunter education is recommended between the ages of 12-16. I don't understand why you would be opposed to the bill?

We don't allow 12 year olds to drive cars.
If you're going to be on the water, you should know the rules.

I never opposed the Boater Education part of this bill. It is idiotic that children under 16 can operate boats alone but are not allowed to attend safe boating courses or receive a certificate.