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Tallahassee, FL - Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has signed the Boater Freedom Act into law, changing how recreational boats are monitored across the state.
Starting July 1st, law enforcement will no longer be allowed to stop and inspect watercraft without probable cause, a move supporters say strengthens personal freedoms for boaters.
The law, passed as Senate Bill 1388, received bipartisan support and introduces major changes to boat regulation in the state with over one million registered vessels.
DeSantis described random inspections as intrusive, likening them to warrantless home searches. “It’s just not how we do,” he said.
One new provision allows boaters to voluntarily undergo safety and sanitation inspections and receive decals to display on their vessels, which may prevent future stops.
The law also blocks state and local governments from banning boats based on their fuel source, ensuring access for diesel, electric, solar, and hydrogen-powered vessels.
However, not all lawmakers were on board. Critics argue the measure may hinder efforts to protect Florida’s fragile ecosystems.
Under the new law, officials must now prove “significant harm” before imposing limits on boat speed or access in protected areas like springs, an added hurdle that opponents say weakens environmental safeguards.
Representative Lindsay Cross (D–St. Petersburg) warned the law may allow irreversible damage to natural resources.
Environmental groups like Waterkeepers Florida pushed for a veto but were unsuccessful.
Additional improvements to marina access and boat ramps are included, though funding depends on the final state budget approval.