MIASF Advocacy
By: MIASF Staff
Date posted: Jul 18, 2019 Thu
State Budget
During the 2019 Florida Legislative Session, MIASF successfully advocated for an appropriation through the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) to study the impact of increased passenger rail on the FEC railway bridge that spans the New River. While MIASF remains supportive of increased transportation opportunities to address traffic congestion, we are dedicated to maintaining the navigability of the New River for our marine businesses. The $750,000 appropriation will provide FDOT the ability to examine alternatives to any additional passenger rail on the existing rail line and identify specific infrastructure solutions that would allow for increased passenger rail in the region, including the potential of Tri-Rail Coastal Link.
Florida Titling of Boats
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signed into law the Uniform Certificate of Title Act (HB 475/S 676), which creates a titling program for recreational boats. The National Marine Manufacturers Association and the marine industry have been advocating for the legislation that creates a vital tool in the effort to protect consumers from buying damaged, destroyed or stolen boats.
Similar to the way Carfax identifies if a car has been in an accident and who the owner is, the creation of a Florida titling program adds consumer protection. Titles also create confidence in the marketplace and help protect dealers from being saddled with an unsellable vessel.