HB 291 -- STATE WATER PATROL FUNDING

SPONSOR:  Cooper (155)

COMMITTEE ACTION:  Voted "do pass" by the Committee on Ways and
Means by a vote of 15 to 0.

This bill increases the fee for a certificate of number when
registering the following vessels:

(1)  Under 16 feet in length from $10 to $20;

(2)  16 feet to 26 feet in length from $20 to $55;

(3)  26 feet to 40 feet in length from $30 to $100; and

(4)  40 feet and longer from $40 to $150.

The first $2 million collected annually for numbering will be
deposited into the General Revenue Fund.  All fees collected in
excess of $2 million will be deposited into the newly created
Missouri State Water Patrol Fund.  Moneys in this fund, subject
to appropriation, will be used solely for the expenses of the
State Water Patrol.  Revenue remaining in the fund at the end of
the biennium will not revert to the credit of the General Revenue
Fund.

When applying for or renewing a vessel's certificate of number,
from the state or for a vessel documented with the United States
Coast Guard, the owner must submit proof that all personal
property taxes owed or previously owed on the vessel have been
paid or that no taxes were due.

FISCAL NOTE:  Estimated Income on General Revenue Fund of
$109,023 in FY 2006, $137,357 in FY 2007, and $137,357 in FY
2008.  Estimated Income on Other State Funds of $2,422,721 in FY
2006, $2,907,265 in FY 2007, and $2,907,265 in FY 2008.

PROPONENTS:  Supporters say that the bill designates needed funds
to support the State Water Patrol through increased fees on
boats.  The water patrol needs to provide adequate salaries to
retain and attract qualified officers, and increased funds could
be used for newer boats and equipment.  Tourism is Missouri's
second largest industry, and the Lake of the Ozarks is the third
most dangerous body of water in the United States.  A 1984 crime
study recommended increasing the number of officers to a total of
125.  Currently, there are 81 active officers.  More officers
could provide more boating safety programs, increase safety on
Missouri's waterways, and provide assistance to local law
enforcement.

Testifying for the bill were Representative Cooper (155);
Missouri Water Patrol Association; Heartland Pro-AM Tournament
Association, Incorporated; Camden County Sheriff; and Lake Ozark
Marine Dealers Association.

OPPONENTS:  There was no opposition voiced to the committee.

OTHERS:  Others testifying on the bill provided technical
information.

Others testifying on the bill was State Water Patrol.

Karla Strobel, Legislative Analyst

Missouri House of Representatives
93rd General Assembly, 1st Regular Session
Last Updated August 25, 2005 at 1:18 pm