Senate Passes Boating While Intoxicated Safety Measure

Senator John A. DeFrancisco (R-I-C, Syracuse) sponsored a bill passed by the Senate today (S2903B) that would require individuals 21 years of age or younger, who have been convicted of alcohol-related boating offenses, to obtain a boating safety certificate before operating a vessel.

“Boating tragedies on Skaneateles and Oneida lakes, as well as the July 2006 BWI death of Syracuse-resident Tiffany Heitkamp have brought the problem of boating while intoxicated to the forefront,” said Senator DeFrancisco. “It is important to educate those who have already been convicted of boating while intoxicated, on how to drive a boat safely, in the hopes of preventing future tragedies,” said Senator DeFrancisco.

The state already requires those age 21 and older and who are convicted of boating while intoxicated to obtain a boating safety certificate before operating a vehicle. The bill passed today expands upon that law by requiring those under 21 and convicted of an alcohol-related boating offense to obtain a certificate as well. The bill has been sent to the Assembly.