Natural Resources - State Boat Act - Alterations

HB 719 updates Maryland's State Boat Act by redefining "personal watercraft" to exclude vessels designed for sitting/standing inside (like some sit-on-top kayaks), removing outdated rules for "Class A vessel" rentals, and eliminating waterskiing restrictions tied to personal flotation devices. It increases the Waterway Improvement Fund threshold for full project funding from $250,000 to $1 million for marinas and other boating facilities, while adjusting fees for boat licenses, stickers, and title transfers. The bill also repeals redundant advertising and public hearing requirements for new regulations and adds a new process for non-motorized vessel decals. These changes directly affect boat owners, dealers, marinas, and recreational boaters by streamlining rules and adjusting costs.