The Log, a publication by for and about California boaters, is passing on a plea from Assemblyman Ted Lieu on behalf of his abandoned-vessel bill, AB 166. The bill passed both houses of the Legislature, and is sitting on the governor's desk. Lieu is urging boaters to write the governor in support of the measure.
AB 166 would permit boat owners to dispose of vessels at no cost by contacting a local government agency. The agency would then call a contractor to take on the job of vessel disposal.
This is an issue in the Delta area, but also around Marina del Rey.The contractor would bill a state fund for the actual cost of disposing of the boat -- preventing the vessel from being abandoned and becoming a costly-to-remove hazard to navigation. Aside from posing navigational hazards, abandoned vessels can emit seeping toxins, such as fuel and oil that can pollute the environment.
Great. The taxpayers have to pay for the disposal of people's toys after they are through playing with it?
Is this idiot for real?!?
Isn't the State BROKE? Does he realize how many boats are in the state? EVERYBODY will take advantage of this program when they a tire of their old boats.
Cheaper alternative: Make a law that boats abandoned in public waterways without valid registration is subject to be confiscated and sold after a 60 day notice placed on the boat. Don't need to track down the owners. There is somebody always willing to pay at least $1 for a piece of crap boat. Then use funds from sales to pay for removal or sinking of truly derelict boats without value. Pump out the toxics, and create an artificial reef for the fish.
we now pay for others irresponsibility
IMPEACH Lieu!