Since this past Summer, over 23,000 Californians and 60 local, state and national business organizations made the case to the California Air Resources Board (CARB) that the proposed harbor craft regulations were economically and structurally infeasible, and there were a host of unresolved safety concerns that needed to be addressed to protect our passengers and crew. As drafted, commercial passenger vessels would have been removed from service starting as soon as next year.
Because of your support, CARB listened and is responding to our pleas to remain in business and maintain the most affordable opportunity for ocean access.
On Thursday, March 24th, the CARB board will consider an alternative plan that reflects our belief that lower engine emissions can be achieved without significant economic harm to small business owners and the communities that depend on them for visitor spending and jobs.
The new plan proposes a compliance schedule that is more achievable — requiring boats to repower to lower emission engines as the technology becomes available and it is economically feasible, and safe. This is a major shift in approach as the State marches down the path of achieving zero-emission engine standards by 2045.
The Sportfishing Association of California and the Golden Gate Fishermen’s Association will testify at the March 24th hearing that the contemplated changes to the proposed rules are acceptable.
Thank you again for having your voice heard! Now, let’s go fishing!
PS: Boat owners please SHARE this post with your customers. Many signed the “Save Our Boats” petition and they should be congratulated for having their voice heard!
