SBONH stands behind change of age requirements for boating certificate

[VtSteve]

Originally Posted by Bear Islander

The anti-speed-limit people have been complaining for years about their boating privileges being limited. So now they are supporting the effort to remove operator privileges from a HUGE portion of the public?

They have argued that there is insufficient data to support a speed limit. Is there ANY data to support taking away these operator privileges? If there is any negative data I would love to see it, and might re-evaluate my position.

It is already illegal to allow a 2 year old to operate a power boat solo. It's called child endangerment.

My son will be 12 next summer so this legislation will not effect him. But he has been operating our 15 HP boat since he was 8 and operating it alone since he was 10.

8 or 10 might be a reasonable limit but not 12! Or set a 5 HP limit from 8 to 12. Something like that may make sense but not this legislation.

When you live on an island boats are your ONLY form of travel. This legislation would be unfairly restrictive to island children.

Image below of soon may be illegal operation of battery powered boat.

So BI, now you want safety data to prove something?

Look, Skip gave you credit for being an adult. Now act like one, and call the MP or call Rep. Chris Christensen and tell them there's something else they should consider.

It was a silly loophole that hadn't been brought up before. Better yet, suggest it here or "over there", instead of whining.

[Bear Islander]

Originally Posted by VtSteve

So BI, now you want safety data to prove something?

Look, Skip gave you credit for being an adult. Now act like one, and call the MP or call Rep. Chris Christensen and tell them there's something else they should consider.

It was a silly loophole that hadn't been brought up before. Better yet, suggest it here or "over there", instead of whining.

I have already contacted the Marine Patrol requesting data on under 12 year old operators. I have also received and sent several PMs, emails and phone calls on the subject. I guess I kind of stirred up a hornets nest.

There was plenty of data and testimony to support a speed limit. We can argue forever about whether or not it was sufficient. So far I am unaware of ANY data that supports setting an operator minimum at 12 years old. If the Marine Patrol has data that makes a case for this legislation, then that is a different story.

All opinions to the contrary, I like to keep an open mind.

[VtSteve]

Originally Posted by Bear Islander

I have already contacted the Marine Patrol requesting data on under 12 year old operators. I have also received and sent several PMs, emails and phone calls on the subject. I guess I kind of stirred up a hornets nest.

There was plenty of data and testimony to support a speed limit. We can argue forever about whether or not it was sufficient. So far I am unaware of ANY data that supports setting an operator minimum at 12 years old. If the Marine Patrol has data that makes a case for this legislation, then that is a different story.

All opinions to the contrary, I like to keep an open mind.

I hadn't thought of the age thing until you brought it up BI, I was just focused on the loophole which was pretty silly. I'll keep an open mind on the age and HP thing, I have no real opinion yet. I think it was simply overlooked.

I think the Marine Patrol should have listened to more people, and also, given their opinions more frequently. I do, however, understand why the MP doesn't want to get too public in their opinions, because everything's so political nowadays.

Good to hear from you again. Really, it is.