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HB 5129

AN ACT ESTABLISHING A SURCHARGE ON HIGH-VALUE RECREATIONAL VESSELS AND CONCERNING THE USE OF THE REVENUE GENERATED.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Jason Doucette and 6 co-sponsors

Connecticut bill proposes new surcharge on high-value recreational vessels to generate dedicated revenue for water-related programs and infrastructure.

REF. TO JOINT COMM. ON Finance, Revenue and Bonding
#boats #fees
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Bill Summary · HB 5129

Legislative bill overview

HB 5129 proposes implementing a surcharge on high-value recreational vessels in Connecticut, with revenues generated dedicated to specific uses designated in the bill. The measure was introduced by Representatives Jason Doucette, Nick Menapace, and Travis Simms and is currently under review by the Joint Committee on Finance, Revenue and Bonding.

Why is this important

Connecticut's waterways and recreational boating infrastructure require ongoing funding for maintenance, safety, and environmental protection. This bill would create a new revenue stream specifically from luxury vessel owners, potentially funding water-related programs while raising questions about tax burden distribution and vessel registration impacts in a state with significant maritime activity.

Potential points of contention

  • Regressive tax concerns: Surcharges on recreational vessels primarily affect wealthier residents, raising fairness questions about whether luxury goods taxation is appropriate or if it unfairly targets specific populations
  • Economic impact on boating industry: Higher costs for vessel ownership could reduce recreational boating purchases, potentially affecting marine dealers, service providers, and related businesses in Connecticut
  • Definition of "high-value": The threshold determining which vessels qualify for the surcharge will significantly affect revenue projections and the number of vessel owners impacted—unclear where this line is drawn
  • Revenue allocation specificity: How revenues will be used must be clearly defined to ensure they benefit the boating community or water infrastructure rather than general state funds

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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