Tennessee House Bill HB1091

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/31/23
• Refer: 2/2/23
• Refer: 3/15/23

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 68, Chapter 102, Part 6; Title 69 and Title 70, relative to no-wake zones.

Impact

Once enacted, HB 1091 will enforce a new legal standard for boat speeds near marinas in Tennessee. The amendment to Section 69-9-216 of the Tennessee Code Annotated indicates that violators would be subject to existing penalties outlined in Section 69-9-219. This could lead to increased enforcement measures and potentially more citations issued to boaters who do not comply with the new speed restrictions. The bill's effective date is set for July 1, 2023, which will give boaters and enforcement agencies time to adapt to the changes.

Summary

House Bill 1091 proposes amendments to several sections of the Tennessee Code Annotated, specifically targeting the regulation of no-wake zones. The legislation introduces stricter controls regarding vessel speeds near marinas, explicitly making it a violation to exceed no-wake speed within one thousand feet of a marina. This change is designed to enhance safety for marina users and other waterway patrons by reducing the risk of accidents and disturbances caused by high-speed vessels.

Contention

While the bill seems to have the straightforward goal of improving safety, discussions around its implications might arise regarding enforcement capabilities and the potential impact on recreational boating activities. There may be concerns regarding how strictly the restrictions will be enforced and whether they could infringe on the enjoyment of water recreation in the affected areas. Additionally, stakeholders in the boating community might have differing views on the necessity and extent of the speed regulations implemented through this bill.