Bill Text: MI HR0307 | 2017-2018 | 99th Legislature | Enrolled
Bill Title: A resolution to oppose the Michigan State Waterways Commission resolution recommending legislation be introduced to require the registration with a fee of all rigid-hulled kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards eight feet or longer.
Spectrum: Partisan Bill (Republican 1-0)
Status: (Passed) 2018-05-08 - Adopted [HR0307 Detail]
Download: Michigan-2017-HR0307-Enrolled.html
Substitute for House Resolution No. 307.
A resolution to oppose the Michigan State Waterways Commission recommendation that legislation be introduced to require the registration with a fee of all rigid-hulled kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards eight feet or longer.
Whereas, Paddle sports are one of the fastest-growing outdoor activities in the nation. Many Michigan residents and visitors from other states enjoy a leisurely paddle on the waters of this state and in doing so, contribute more than $140 million to Michigan’s economy; and
Whereas, The Michigan State Waterways Commission recently passed Resolution 02-2018-01 recommending that registration fees be implemented for all rigid-hulled kayaks and canoes as well as paddleboards eight feet or longer. Under current law, these vessels are exempt from fees and registration in Michigan; and
Whereas, Most paddlers will receive minimal benefit from the registration fees, especially the many boaters who exclusively paddle inland waterways and rivers. Although some rustic and unimproved access sites exist along Michigan's waterways and rivers, most funding for access sites go to state boat launches designed for powerboats and trailers. These sites are not necessarily safe or easy for paddlers to use. Paddlers who do choose to launch from state sites must purchase a recreation passport which supports the maintenance and operation of these sites. Registration fees also fund sheriff patrols on Michigan's inland lakes. Although safer inland lakes are beneficial to paddlers, increased safety patrols will provide little benefit for paddlers traversing rivers and scenic waterways; and
Whereas, As more Michigan residents discover the excitement and adventure of paddling on Michigan waterways, a registration fee on these vessels would only curtail the growth of a sport that provides great benefits to our state. A family sport, paddling allows residents who are unable to participate in powerboating to access our boundless water resources. A registration fee would only place a burden on our residents while adversely impacting the economic benefits that paddle sports bring to Michigan; and
Whereas, On April 25, 2018, due to wide-spread public and legislative opposition, the Michigan State Waterways Commission passed Resolution 04-2018-04 which amended Resolution 02-2018-01. This new resolution calls for further evaluation and extended public input on how to improve Michigan's paddle sports recreational opportunities. Further, Resolution 04-2018-04 indicates that the Michigan State Waterways Commission will not pursue a paddle sport craft fee at this time; now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the House of Representatives, That we oppose the registration with a fee of all rigid-hulled kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards eight feet or longer and we encourage the Michigan State Waterways Commission to look at ways to improve recreational opportunities other than recommending new fees on Michigan families; and be it further
Resolved, That copies of this resolution be transmitted to the members of the Michigan State Waterways Commission.
