New, Stricter Boating Laws Kick In

New, stricter boating laws kick in

TALLAHASSEE — New legislation aimed at strengthening vessel accountability is being backed by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.

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Florida's new 'Lucy's Law' toughens boating penalties

©2025 The News Service of Florida Starting Tuesday, boat operators can face stricter penalties if they flee accidents, don’t assist other people or provide false information to first responders. Gov. Ron DeSantis on Friday signed a measure (HB 289), known as “Lucy’s Law, that includes the changes. The bill was spurred by a 2022 crash in the Florida Keys that resulted in the death of 17-year-old Lucy Fernandez. “We’re confident that this legislat…

New stricter penalties for boating under influence take effect Tuesday

People who get behind the wheel of a boat after a few drinks could soon face tougher penalties.House Bill 239, known as Lucys Law is a state law that takes effect on Tuesday.The law requires a minimum of four years in prison, for anyone convicted of boating while impaired or BUI manslaughter.The law is named after in honor of 17-year-old Lucy Fernandez, from Miami. In 2022, Fernandez died after being involved in a boating crash.The boater steeri…

'Lucy's Law' Toughens Boating Penalties

Starting Tuesday, boat operators can face stricter penalties if they flee accidents, don’t provide assistance to other people or provide false information to first responders. Gov. Ron DeSantis on Friday signed a measure (HB 289), known as “Lucy’s Law, that…