Quote:
Originally Posted by VtSteve
Has anyone decided which part of the new law requires more enforcement activity yet?
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I really feel the bulk of the law has merits. The only part is the arbitrary speed of 45/25. If it is arbitrary, how can it be enforced, proven in court?
Where did the 45/25 come from? Proponents says it works on Lake George NY. This is not Lake George NY. This is Lake Winnipesaukee! A huge body of water compared to Lake George. Lake George is bordered predominantly by state land. Lake Winnipesaukee is not. Lake George does not have the 150' rule. Winnipesaukee has. I could go on. There is no comparision. Lake Winnipesaukee is not better off with an arbitrary limit.
Why 45? Why not 35, 55, or even 65? It makes no sense it is only a number. Why 25? Why not 5, 15 or even 35? It's only a number. These numbers are not backed up with a fact like, less accident at 45 than other speeds. 25 mph is a bad speed. many boats can not operate on plane at that speed and results in more shore erosions. You will have boneheads that think they need to go 45/25 even if the conditions are dangerous.
Adding the USCG Rule 6 to the present law has merits. It will give the NHMP more teeth to justify the arrest in court. People tend to find loopholes in vague laws. 'reasonable and prudent' can be vague.
Adding fines with a high fee schedule has a lot of merits. Many folks can not afford to make a 'mistake'. If a fee schedule is added, it must support the NHMP and not go into the NH 'general funds'. The Marine Patrol is a fine organization and should not be short funded. It serves a valuable service in boating and water safety.