A major change in Maryland’s boating laws could catch some West Virginia water enthusiasts off guard this summer, especially those who enjoy popular destinations like the Potomac River that share a border with another state.
Because Maryland owns the entire Potomac River, despite it making up the border of Maryland, Virginia and West Virginia, due to a 2003 U.S. Supreme Court decision, the change will impact West Virginians who want to bring boats onto the river from their side of the river.
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources requires any vessel used in Maryland, whether commercial or recreational, to be registered in Maryland. This includes the Potomac River.
As part of a sweeping legislative update to the State Boat Act, House Bill 719, Maryland has redefined what qualifies as a “personal watercraft,” expanding the category to include a broader range of recreational vessels. The change, along with increased registration fees and new safety requirements, took effect on July 1.
The update removes the term “Class A Vessel” from the previous definition, along with some other specifications, simplifying the definition to include any vessel that is propelled by a water-jet pump or other machinery as its primary source of motive power designed to be operated by a person sitting, standing or kneeling on the vessel.
That means newer, larger models of jet-powered boats and hybrid watercrafts will now be regulated under the same personal watercraft rules, which carry stricter age limits, operation restrictions and safety requirements.
At the same time, the cost to boat in Maryland is going up. The two-year registration fee is jumping from $24 to $70. The cost of a certificate of title is increasing from $2 to $20. Maryland’s use sticker also rises from $10 to $70.
The fee hikes are intended to support an expanded Waterway Improvement Fund, which will now offer fully state-funded support for projects up to $500,000 — double the previous limit. Funding has also been added for small-scale waterway improvements and public boating access across the state.
I was shocked this year when the registration was still $20. This is all about the money. Remember, Maryland went from a $5 billion surplus when Gov. Hogan left office, to desperately trying to close a $3 billion deficit under Gov. Moore. If it moves, tax it. If it's still moving, raise the taxes.
The Wombat has Rule Five Sunday: The Ghost of Safeguard-chan Watches Over Us up and at 'em at The Other McCain.
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