Senators adopt amendment to clarify outboard motor registration in boat tax bill

Senators on the floor adopted an amendment clarifying that a $10 registration requirement tied to a recently passed boat tax bill applies only to outboard motors that are in operation, not to motors being stored as parts, antiques or off-boat spares.

Senator Charles (S18) explained the change during a brief special-order explanation, saying the amendment fixes an oversight in language adopted previously that could have required registration for outboard motors merely kept on a rack or in a garage. "The registration will only be applicable to motors that are actually in operation," the sponsor said. Members asked clarifying questions about definitions—one senator noted "waters of the state" must be navigable waters, and the sponsor confirmed that requirement.

The amendment was agreed to by voice vote and the bill then returned to third-reading procedures; a roll call was later taken on a separate bill later on the calendar. The floor discussion did not include an enactment date or fiscal note for the registration change during the session record.