I think the $15 per boat/year fee is excessive, as most of us have several boats. I have no problem that some of the fees go to powerboat facilities, I use those too. And, if they were making money on kayaks and canoes, it'd give us pressure to add to facilitied for us.

As far as HIN numbers, technically that is already required. We are supposed to have the boat inspected, and they issue a number for it, for identification. It's free, and it isnt enforced. None of my five boats are registered.

I fail to see the good of identification; the state is not going to help recover stolen canoes and kayaks any more than they do bicycles. And I'm not about to put 3" lettering on the hulls. In a kayak, you wouldnt be able to see it anyway, and they'd be underwater half the time.

I think a reasonable compromise would be $5.00 per boat/year. I do understand that the Marine Board is self-financed, and we do benefit from them. This is a more realistic amount, based on the value of the boat and the fact that most paddlers have more than one. And I suppose if they insist on a decal, at least let us put it inside the cockpit where it doesnt clash with it's background.

What is your dad's name? I sent email to several of the people listed on the committee, and didnt hear back from anyone.

: I'd like to here your comments both pro and con on
: House Bill 3483. I will pass them on to my father who is
: on the transportation committee.

: For example registration for identification. Has anybody
: reclaimed a stolen kayak this way. etc...