Government Affairs

BoatUS Government Affairs advocates on behalf of recreational boat owners on Capitol Hill and before the federal agencies in Washington. These articles capture the advocacy work our team conducts, and brings attention to new boating and fishing laws on the horizon that could affect all boaters.

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Strength In Numbers, Backed By BoatUS

Your national organization, with some 740,000 members and a dedicated Government Affairs department, guides local boaters in water-access dispute over public launch ramp.
Two anglers on a fishing boat hold up a large red snapper while offshore in open ocean waters.

Red Snapper Season Goes To The States

Red snapper management shifts to state control, expanding fishing seasons across the South Atlantic. Learn what the change means for anglers.
Leopard 52 cruising catamaran under sail with hybrid electric drive, shown offshore with full mainsail and headsail, blue water, and a coastal city skyline in the background.

The Endless Dredge For Safe Passage

A notorious shoaling hotspot on South Carolina’s AIWW, Breach Inlet is seeing improved navigation thanks to recent dredging—good news for cruising snowbirds, anglers, and local boaters.
Northeast Boaters

Northeast Boaters

Don’t miss your chance to comment on a proposed removal of dozens of federally maintained coastal buoys from New York City to the Canadian border.
The Taxes That Come Back To Boaters

The Taxes That Come Back To Boaters

Since 1950, the Sport Fish Restoration and Boating Trust Fund – up for reauthorization in September 2026 – has provided more than $40 billion for state-based conservation programs.
New Florida Boating Laws

New Florida Boating Laws

Florida legislators restrict anchoring options but prohibit 'safety compliance' stops and strengthen enforcement over derelict vessels.
Noaa Services For Boaters

Noaa Services For Boaters

The Trump administration recommends stripping funding for real-time weather, hurricane forecasting, fisheries recovery, research and education, grants, and more.
New Boating Education Law In New England

New Boating Education Law In New England

The growing list of states requiring some form of safe boating education before taking the helm continues to grow with Massachusetts filling out the entire Northeast U.S.
Storm Brewing At Noaa

Storm Brewing At Noaa

Layoffs and budget cuts are expected to affect boater safety, weather forecasting, navigation, and recreational access.