East Idaho Times

U.S. Senators Mike Crapo, Jim Risch, and Jeanne Shaheen have sent a bipartisan letter to the U.S. Coast Guard, advocating for a return to a previous interpretation of statutory rules that permitted states to collect fees for various boating-related programs. These programs include addressing aquatic invasive species, boating safety, and search and rescue operations.

The recent decision by the Coast Guard has prevented several states from combining the boat registration process with the Certificate of Numbering (CON). This integrated system has been successfully implemented in Idaho for over ten years. Earlier this year, Senators Crapo, Risch, and Shaheen introduced the State Boating Act to clarify that states can collect state boating fees alongside CON fees and registration.

"The Coast Guard’s drastic decision to overturn its decades-long policy when the prior interpretation was not only authorized but also working is truly puzzling," stated the Senators in their letter. "For these reasons, we ask that the Coast Guard immediately use all available tools and authorities, including a rulemaking, to revert back to its prior interpretation to permit our states to again couple federal and state fees."

In the United States, most boats must carry either a Certificate of Documentation (COD) or a CON while operating. Boats with propulsion machinery are required to have a valid CON or temporary certificate unless they qualify for an exception under existing law. Vessel owners typically obtain a CON from the state where they operate most frequently. States can manage their own numbering programs if these comply with Standard Numbering System requirements and receive approval from the Coast Guard.

According to current Coast Guard statute interpretations, states are only allowed to condition vessel number issuance on proof of ownership, payment of taxes, or liability insurance proof. However, many states have been collecting additional fees along with CON fees to support crucial boating and environmental initiatives.

The full text of the letter is available online.