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Bill

S 5400

Exempts operators of law enforcement and fire department vessels from laws which regulate vessels on the navigable waters of the state while responding to emergencies

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Pam Helming and 2 co-sponsors

Bill S 5400 exempts law enforcement and fire department vessels from navigational regulations during emergencies, improving response times and enhancing public safety.

REFERRED TO TRANSPORTATION
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Bill Summary · S 5400

Summary of Bill S 5400

Bill Overview

  • Bill Number: S 5400
  • Title: Exempts operators of law enforcement and fire department vessels from laws which regulate vessels on the navigable waters of the state while responding to emergencies
  • Status: Referred to Transportation
  • Introduced Date: February 21, 2025
  • Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

The primary intent of Bill S 5400 is to provide legal exemptions for operators of law enforcement and fire department vessels when they are responding to emergencies on navigable waters. This legislation aims to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of emergency response efforts by allowing these vessels to operate without the constraints of certain vessel regulations during critical situations.

Key Provisions

  • Exemption from Regulations: The bill specifically exempts law enforcement and fire department vessels from existing laws that govern vessel operation on navigable waters while they are engaged in emergency responses.
  • Scope of Application: This exemption applies solely to situations where these vessels are responding to emergencies, ensuring that public safety is prioritized during urgent incidents.

Affected Parties

  • Law Enforcement Agencies: Police and other law enforcement entities that operate vessels for patrol, rescue, or emergency response will benefit from this exemption.
  • Fire Departments: Fire department vessels, which may be used for firefighting or rescue operations on water, will also be exempt from certain regulations.
  • General Public: The bill aims to improve emergency response times and effectiveness, thereby benefiting the public during emergencies on navigable waters.

Legislative Timeline

  • February 21, 2025: Bill introduced and referred to the Committee on Cultural Affairs, Tourism, Parks and Recreation.
  • April 8, 2025: The bill was reported for the first time to the calendar.
  • April 9, 2025: The bill was reported for the second time to the calendar.
  • April 10, 2025: Advanced to third reading.
  • April 30, 2025: Passed in the Senate and delivered to the Assembly, where it was referred to the Transportation Committee.

Related Legislation

Bill S 5400 has several related bills from prior sessions, including:
- S 387
- S 1504
- S 922
- S 584
- S 602
- S 1185
- S 3012
- S 988
- S 4026
- A 4658 (companion bill)

Conclusion

Bill S 5400 seeks to streamline emergency response operations for law enforcement and fire department vessels by exempting them from certain navigational regulations. This legislative change is expected to enhance public safety during emergencies on navigable waters, allowing for quicker and more effective responses by these critical services.

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

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