SPECIAL WATERCRAFT RULES ON STATE WATERS:

TRANSFER RESPONSIBILITIES FROM DNR TO NRC

House Bill 5125

Sponsor:  Rep. Goeff Hansen

1^st Committee:  Natural Resources, Great Lakes, Land Use, and Environment

2^nd Committee:  Local Government and Urban Policy

Complete to 2-17-06

A SUMMARY OF HOUSE BILL 5125 AS INTRODUCED 9-6-05

The bill would amend Part 801 (Marine Safety) of the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act to transfer to the Natural Resources Commission the role currently performed by the Department of Natural Resources regarding special rules for vessels, water skis, water sleds, aquaplanes, surfboards, and "similar contrivances" on the waters of the state.

Currently, NREPA allows the DNR to initiate investigations and inquiries into the need for special rules on state waters and then to prepare a local ordinance if controls are considered necessary.  The local unit can approve or disapprove the ordinance.  A local unit that believes a special local ordinance is needed can initiate the process by informing the DNR and requesting assistance.  House Bill 5125 would place the responsibility currently given to the DNR to the Natural Resources Commission.

BACKGROUND INFORMATION:

            Examples of special local watercraft controls can be found at on the DNR website at:

www.michigan.gov/dnr/0,1607,%207-153-10366_37141_37701---,00.html

FISCAL IMPACT:

There would be no fiscal impact on the state or on local governmental units.

                                                                                           Legislative Analyst:   Chris Couch

                                                                                                  Fiscal Analyst:   Kirk Lindquist

■ This analysis was prepared by nonpartisan House staff for use by House members in their deliberations, and does not constitute an official statement of legislative intent.