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HB 115

Property Damage Caused by Limestone Mining Operations

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Robin Bartleman and 2 co-sponsors

House Bill 115 enhances vessel registration in Georgia, requiring owners to address abandoned boats, with penalties for non-compliance to improve public safety and environmental health.

Died in Civil Justice & Claims Subcommittee
#subjectindex #(adopted)
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Bill Summary · HB 115

Summary of House Bill 115

Bill Number: HB 115
Title: Natural Resources, Department of; certain notice upon registration of a vessel; provide
Status: Senate Tabled
Introduced: January 17, 2025

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 115 aims to amend the registration, operation, and sale of watercraft in Georgia. The primary intent of the bill is to enhance the management of abandoned vessels in public waters and on public property. It seeks to establish clearer procedures for the registration of vessels, the handling of abandoned vessels, and the penalties associated with non-compliance.

Key Provisions

  1. Registration Notice:

    • The bill mandates that applications for vessel registration include a statement informing applicants of the criminal consequences for failing to remove abandoned vessels from public waters or property.

  2. Unattended Vessel Checks:

    • Law enforcement officers or authorized individuals must perform checks on unattended vessels found in public waters or property to ensure they do not pose a threat to public health or safety.
    • A completed check will result in an unattended vessel check card being attached to the vessel.

  3. Abandoned Vessel Procedures:

    • The bill revises the procedures for notifying owners of abandoned vessels and outlines the steps for their removal.
    • It establishes penalties for failing to remove an abandoned vessel after receiving notice, including potential criminal violations.

  4. Restitution for Costs:

    • The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is authorized to seek restitution for costs incurred in the removal, storage, and disposal of abandoned vessels.

  5. Definitions:

    • The bill provides definitions for terms such as "public waters," clarifying that it includes all waters within Georgia's territorial limits, excluding privately owned ponds or lakes.

Impact

  • Affected Parties:

    • Vessel owners, law enforcement agencies, and the Department of Natural Resources will be directly impacted by the provisions of this bill.
    • The bill aims to reduce the number of abandoned vessels, which can pose safety hazards and environmental concerns.

  • Penalties:

    • Individuals who fail to comply with the removal of abandoned vessels may face criminal charges, emphasizing the seriousness of the issue.

Procedural Timeline

  • January 17, 2025: Bill introduced and entered the House.
  • February 26, 2025: Passed by the House and adopted by substitute.
  • February 27, 2025: Read and referred to the Senate.
  • March 20, 2025: Favorably reported by the Senate Committee.
  • March 21, 2025: Read a second time in the Senate.
  • April 2, 2025: Tabled in the Senate.

Conclusion

House Bill 115 represents a significant effort to address the issue of abandoned vessels in Georgia's public waters. By establishing clear procedures and penalties, the bill aims to promote responsible vessel ownership and enhance public safety and environmental protection.

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

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