Emergency Precautions Could Shrink Boat Fees

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TALLAHASSEE (CBSMiami/NSF) - A state senator is proposing a reduction in annual registration fees for boaters who purchase emergency locator devices for their vessels.

Senator Joe Negron, from Stuart, is slated to introduce the legislation at a Wednesday press conference where he will be joined by Blu Stephanos, the father of Austin Stephanos.

The younger Stephanos and another 14-year-old boy from the northern Palm Beach County village of Tequesta three months ago vanished at sea after leaving Jupiter Inlet in a 19-foot boat.

"Tragedies on our waterways have impacted communities across our state, including my local community on the Treasure Coast," said Negron in a prepared statement. "While government cannot prevent these horrific incidents, we can and should do more to encourage boaters to have solid safety precautions in place as they enjoy time on Florida's coast and waterways."

Last month Sen. Jeremy Ring of Margate introduced a proposal that would increase the minimum age to operate personal watercraft in most Florida waters from 14 to 16. Ring's measure does not address the age of boat operators.

The News Service of Florida contributed to this report.