Re: [Paddlewise] State Registration for Each Kayak

From:  Bruce McC

> We do not have canoe and kayak registration in Florida.  There have been 
> attempts in the past several years to implement one, but, nothing has passed 
> yet.

Thanks for your response, Bruce.

If that registration/fee requirement per boat is passed in Texas, I am 
concerned that it will have an impact on paddlers elsewhere if other state
services see this as a solution to more income.  What about out-of-state
visitors and their canoes/kayaks?  Jim, do you have any info on that?

> A strong concerted front from the Professional Paddlesports Association (PPA) 
> and a vocal paddling community at large (clubs, individuals, rental 
> operations) have stalled the state action. 

Was it write-in campaigns?  Can you give more detail about what action
clubs took?  I'm not familiar with PPA.  Is that strictly Florida or is 
it nationwide?  If they are nationwide, do you know how they can be contacted?

> Of course, cash is the motivating factor.  The larger the number of vessels 
> registered in a state, the larger the percentage of funds from the 
> Wallup-Breaux Fund.

What's the Wallup-Breaux Fund?  (or is that tongue-in-cheek :-)

Reminds me of the "Voluntary Tax" on outdoor equipment some group was
trying to push a while back.  I don't know what happened with that but
I know the ACA was fighting it.  Maybe the ACA is already working with
Texas paddlers regarding the registration fee.  They are pretty active
in Texas.  

Jim, please keep us posted and let us know what you find out.

Thanks,

Jackie

***************************************************************************
PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List - All postings copyright the author and not
to be reproduced outside PaddleWise without author's permission
Submissions:     paddlewise_at_lists.intelenet.net
Subscriptions:   paddlewise-request_at_lists.intelenet.net
Website:         http://www.paddlewise.net/
***************************************************************************