State Senate passes new boating while intoxicated bill
The New York State Senate passed a new bill this week that requires all boat operators convicted of boating while intoxicated to take a boating safety course.
Currently, those convicted of boating while intoxicated, who are age 21 and over, are required to obtain a boating safety certificate before operating a boat. The new bill, sponsored by upstate Senator John DeFrancisco, expands on that law to include people under the age of 21.
“Long Island’s peak boating season is fast approaching,” said state Senator Ken LaValle (R-Port Jefferson), who voted in favor of the new legislation. “Educating those who have been convicted of BWI may prevent future tragedies.”
The state Assembly is expected to vote on the bill.
