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A new law championed by South Florida legislators that aims to address abandoned boats in state waters has received Gov. Ron DeSantis’ approval.
The measure (SB 164), sponsored by Doral Sen. Ana Maria Rodriguez and Miami Beach Rep. Fabián Basabe, hikes penalties for violating Florida’s derelict vessel laws.
It also creates a free, long-term anchoring permit program beginning next year for boaters wanting to affix their ships within 1 mile of an anchoring point for two weeks or more per month.
Boaters violating anchoring mandates face penalties ranging from a $100 fine to 15 years in prison and $10,000 in damages.
– Jesse Scheckner, Florida Politics