relative to establishing an exception to vessel registration, defining commercial passenger vessel, and regulating written examinations and certifications for operating commercial vessels.

This bill creates a specific exception to the rule requiring operator certificates for commercial vessels, allowing individuals aged 14 to 17 to operate small boats without certification under strict conditions. To qualify, the vessel must be 16 feet or shorter and used solely for selling pre-packaged food or non-alcoholic beverages, while prohibiting activities like towing, safety support, or transporting passengers. The law also defines what constitutes a commercial passenger vessel and sets new requirements for written examinations and certifications for those operating larger commercial vessels. These changes take effect on January 1, 2025, with a temporary provision starting on September 17, 2024.