Advocacy Report
By: MIASF Staff
Date posted: Dec 01, 2021 Wed
For the first time in almost two years, travel restrictions to the United States were lifted on November 8th for fully vaccinated international visitors. However, on November 29th, new restrictions for South African countries were introduced in response to the newest COVID variant. Fortunately, the Presidential Order is still in place, overriding these restrictions and permitting yacht crew to continue travel to their vessels located in the U.S.
In preparation for the 2022 State Legislative Session, several bills have been filed that we are monitoring for their impact to the marine industry as they address topics such as boating, waterway safety, and derelict vessel management. Additionally, there are bills filed that address endangered and threatened species classifications as well as sea grass mitigation banks. One final item we are monitoring is amendments to the Yacht & Ship Brokers Act which would refine definitions and structure to the current regulation. We are looking forward to session beginning in January and participating, once again, in Broward Days, a time when constituents meet with their representatives to discuss their concerns and issues.
On November 18th, the Florida Department of Transportation partnered with Broward County to host a New River Crossing Stakeholder Workshop that was open to the public. The purpose of this meeting was to provide a platform to discuss potential alternatives at the new river crossing for passenger rail and it was great to see so many marine industry businesses in attendance. Our collective voice for this matter is critical to ensure the project that moves forward provides a solution that accommodates navigation for boats. No build is not an option as it will stifle the growth of our industry and impede our marine businesses. Many elected officials including Mayor Dean Trantalis, Mayor Josh Levy, Mayor Michael Udine, Vice Mayor Lamar Fisher, and Commissioner Tim Ryan were also in attendance and heard the navigational concerns for our industry. Additional public meetings will be scheduled in the first quarter or 2022 and we will be sure to let you know when the dates are confirmed as it is critical we all remain engaged.