Hello,
I am writing today to inform you of Governor Newsom’s proposal to increase vessel registration fees as well as cut boating-related grants.
A recent article published in the LA Times highlighted this issue, shedding light on the governor's plan. Currently, the registration fee stands at a modest $20 for a two- year sticker for motorboats and sailboats longer than 8 feet. However, Newsom's proposal aims to quadruple it to $80, with subsequent increases every four years.
California's boating industry is vital to our state's economy, generating several billion dollars annually. However, Newsom's budget proposal seeks to significantly reduce or eliminate these programs, leaving us with limited resources for maintaining and improving boat launching ramps by cutting $6 million as well as cutting $5.3 million which is currently being used to remove invasive plants that harm boats and waterways.
It is only reasonable to expect that an increase in fees should be accompanied by an equivalent or improved level of service. Unfortunately, Newsom's proposal fails to provide any reassurances in this regard. Instead, it leaves us questioning the fate of our beloved boating facilities and the future accessibility of navigable waterways.
I recognize that in District 72, boating is part of the culture so I will do everything in my power to give the boating community a voice in Sacramento. I recently sent an email out to many of my coastal constituents to let them know what’s going on, you can view it by CLICKING HERE.
Sincerely,
Diane B. Dixon
California’s 72nd Assembly District