Whereas, because recreational boating in the State is so diverse in types of watercraft and surface waters, and the responsibility for boating law enforcement is shared by some 6 agencies of local, state and federal government, proposed solutions often receive far less attention than they deserve; and

Whereas, the growth of recreational boating in the State has generated a growing public and governmental concern over boating safety and boating education; and

Whereas, the Legislature considered a large number of bills impacting recreational boating during the 119th legislative session; and

Whereas, in the judgment of the Legislature, these facts create an emergency within the meaning of the Constitution of Maine and require the following legislation as immediately necessary for the preservation of the public peace, health and safety; now, therefore,

Be it enacted by the People of the State of Maine as follows:

Sec. 1. 5 MRSA §12004-I, sub-§49-C is enacted to read:

49-C. Maine Expenses 12 MRSA

Inland Boating Only if not §7806

Fisheries Safety Otherwise

and Wildlife Advisory Compensated

Council

Sec. 2. 12 MRSA §7806 is enacted to read:

§7806.__Maine Boating Safety Advisory Council

The Maine Boating Safety Advisory Council, referred to in this section as the "council," is established by Title 5, section 12004-I, subsection 49-C.

1.__Membership; composition; terms.__The Commissioner of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife shall solicit membership and representatives from the following organizations:

A.__The United States Coast Guard;

B.__The Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife;