OLR Bill Analysis

HB 5135

AN ACT CONCERNING HARBOR MASTERS AND NO-WAKE ZONES.

SUMMARY:

This bill gives harbor masters specific authority to cite vessel operators for traveling at a speed in excess of slow-no-wake. Although the bill does not specify the fine for such a citation, current law sets fines between $ 50 and $ 200 for violation of slow-no-wake.

EFFECTIVE DATE: Upon passage

BACKGROUND

Slow-No-Wake

Slow-no-wake speed does not produce more than a minimum wake and is less than six miles per hour over ground. There is an exception when a higher speed is required to navigate a strong current.

Harbor Masters

The law requires that the governor appoint a harbor master for Branford, Bridgeport, New Haven, New London, Norwalk, Norwich, Stamford, and Stonington harbors. She may appoint a harbor master in any town that has (1) navigable waters and (2) adopted a harbor management plan.

Harbor masters are charged with the general care and supervision of the harbors and navigable waterways over which they have jurisdiction, subject to the transportation commissioner's direction and control. They are responsible for the safe and efficient operation of such harbors and navigable waterways.

COMMITTEE ACTION

Environment Committee

Joint Favorable Change of Reference

Transportation Committee

Joint Favorable