The bill would amend the Parks and Wildlife Code to regulate commercially operated party boats on inland waters as defined. The bill would require the Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission to set rules to implement new requirements which would hold a boat operator legally liable for personal injury and property damage as a result of intoxicated individuals. An operator license and part boat safety inspection would be required, together with accompanying fees.
According to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD), the bill would generate revenue from new fees in an amount estimated to be $56,250 per year, for approximately 250 boats affected (annual license fees estimated at $125 per unit and inspection fees at $100 per unit). TPWD reports the bill could cost as much as $150,000 in fiscal year 2008 to program the agency’s license system to accommodate new license and inspection fees; however, this estimate assumes implementation of the bill could be absorbed within the agency’s existing resources. To the extent the bill would create new regulations for commercially operated boats; no significant fiscal implication to the State is anticipated. The bill would take immediate effect with two-thirds the vote of all members; otherwise, the bill would take effect September 1, 2007.
Costs to municipalities or other political subdivisions with certified marine safety enforcement officers to implement the provisions of the bill would depend upon the the rules developed by the Parks and Wildlife Commission.