Action is no longer needed on this particular alert.

The California Legislature has finished up its first session of the 2023–2024 legislative session without including a proposed $60 annual increase in the vessel registration fee. This increase was contained in Governor Newsom’s proposed budget to address the ongoing $20 million annual deficiency in the state’s Harbors and Watercraft Revolving Fund (HWRF.) This fund pays for boating access and safety programs. Although this deficiency has not been resolved and will be revisited next year, the legislature clearly heard concerns from boaters like you on what such a large increase would mean for boating families.

Working with our state partner, the Recreational Boaters of California (RBOC), BoatU.S. helped deliver more than 4,000 messages to state representatives and senators asking they not pass this 300% increase. While we recognize the need to address the HWRF deficiency, boaters sent a strong message that the administration must engage with stakeholders to ensure these funds go to benefit boating programs.

Stay on watch for additional calls to action from the BoatU.S. Government Affairs team. While it appears possible boat registration fees in California will change in the next few years, it is vital that Sacramento hear from you to keep boater dollars going to boater programs.

You can learn more about the regional, state and national issues RBOC and BoatU.S. advocated on for California boaters this year at the RBOC website.

Thank you for being a BoatU.S. member.