Vessel Identification Protection Act of 2026

The Vessel Identification Protection Act of 2026 strengthens federal laws against tampering with boat identification numbers by making it a crime to knowingly remove, alter, or forge these marks on vessels involved in interstate commerce. This legislation directly affects boat owners, manufacturers, and dealers by prohibiting the use of unauthorized identification numbers and imposing penalties of up to five years in prison or fines for violations. Additionally, the bill increases the maximum prison sentence to ten years for anyone who buys or possesses a vessel knowing its identification number has been illegally altered or removed. Exceptions are made for damage caused by accidents like collisions or fires, and for actions authorized by the Coast Guard.