DeSantis signs ‘Boater Freedom Act’ to limit local restrictions on Florida waters
PANAMA CITY BEACH, Fla. – Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis signed the “Boater Freedom Act“ into law during a news conference in Panama City Beach on Monday.
He said the new legislation will protect boaters from government overreach and preserve Florida’s reputation as the ”boating and fishing capital of the world.”
The measure, also known as Senate Bill 1388, blocks local governments from banning gas-powered boats and bars law enforcement from stopping vessels for random safety checks without probable cause.
It also tasks the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission with launching a five-year vessel safety decal program tied to boat registration.
Supporters of the bill say it safeguards the rights of boaters who prefer gas-powered vessels and prevents restrictions pushed by local environmental groups. Statewide protections for wake zones, manatees, and seagrass beds remain unchanged.
Under the new law, FWC and county tax collectors will issue a “Florida Freedom Boater” decal when boaters register their vessels and confirm they meet safety requirements.
The decal will serve as a signal to officers that no stop is needed, allowing law-abiding boaters to enjoy the water without disruption.
DeSantis also signed House Bill 735, which provides funding to expand public access to waterways by improving boat ramps, marina facilities, and parking through FWC programs.
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