01/16/2019

Boating United - 2018 Advocacy Successes

By: Nicole Vasilaros, Boating United

In 2018, Boating United advocates like you engaged at record levels – making the voice of the recreational boating industry louder than ever before:

• 4,428 advocates contacted their members of Congress
• 18,615 emails sent to Congress
• 242 calls made to Congress
• 337 posts on social media
• 1,302 petition signatures

And thanks to your efforts, we have much to celebrate. Here are just a few accomplishments that we were able to achieve together:

Passed the Modern Fish Act, a major step toward modernizing federal fisheries management and conservation and protecting recreational angling for generations.

Passed the U.S. Coast Guard Authorization Act, which will expand the use of alternative distress signals, update the Certificate of Documentation registration process, and provide new training for 911 dispatchers on when the Coast Guard should be involved in emergency situations – making recreational boating safer for everyone.

Passed America’s Water Infrastructure Act – legislation that will improve dredging projects around the country, help restore the Everglades, stop current and future toxic algae blooms, and combat aquatic invasive species.

Introduced three boating industry-specific bills in the U.S. Congress:

• E15 consumer education & protection
• Tariff relief for the boating industry
• National fishing & boating week recognition

Secured several victories at the state level, including:

• Passed uniform titling in Hawaii
• Prevented ban on lead tackle in California
• Ensured consistency in CO detector laws in multiple states

And much much more! In 2019, we’re continuing our advocacy efforts full speed ahead, and counting on you to make sure our lawmakers know the priorities and importance of the recreational boating industry.