Environment Committee

JOINT FAVORABLE REPORT

SPONSORS OF BILL:

Sen. Andrea Stillman

REASONS FOR BILL:

This bill is an extension of Section 4 of Public Act 10-124 which was designed to sunset in May 2012. The bill allows persons holding United States Coast Guard passenger-for-hire licenses and charter boat registrations to operate vessels registered with marine dealer registrations numbers, subject to certain conditions.

RESPONSE FROM ADMINISTRATION/AGENCY:

None

NATURE AND SOURCES OF SUPPORT:

Capt. Dan Wood, Connecticut Woods and Water Guide Service:

Capt. Wood has been operating a light tackle fishing guide service out of Niantic since 1980. For fifteen years, he has had a sponsorship with Hydra-Sports boat manufacturer and Evinrude outboard motors. During this time, he has worked with Atlantic Outboard, a marine dealer in Westbrook. Every year, Wood receives a dealer demo boat which he operates throughout the season at prominent tournaments, boat shows, and personal appearances while supplying feedback and recommendations to the dealer and manufacturers. Wood supports the bill because it would allow him to remain in business, enable Atlantic Outboard to maintain the high sales volumes they have achieved through this progressive marketing approach, and may open doors for established guides seeking corporate endorsements in the future.

Randy Jernigan, Regional Sales Manager, Hydra-Sports:

Mr. Jernigan supports the bill as it would allow Hydra-Sports to continue its working relationship with Capt. Wood and Atlantic Outboard.

NATURE AND SOURCES OF OPPOSITION:

None