[Paddlewise] Canoe and Kayak Registration

There is a proposal before the Oregon Legislature to assess a $15/year fee on
all watercraft under 18 feet, to include canoes and kayaks. 

This is new beans in Oregon. Heretofore only engine-powered craft and sailboats
over 19 feet (I think) were required to register and pay an annual fee.

I doubt the proposal has much chance of passage. However, it pays to be
prepared in a situation like this.

Currently, the legislation has no language linking the fee to benefits to
paddlecraft:

1. no stipulation it be used to develop access for paddle craft,

and, 2. the great likelihood our measly fees will get lost in the swamp of
revenue from the marine fuel tax.  The State Marine Board uses that revenue
(which is enormous) to support boat ramp and float construction and
maintenance.

I'd appreciate receiving any language used in other states to tie similar
registration revenue to improvements in facilities for paddlecraft. Or, failing
that, language which ensures adequate representation of paddling interests on
your State Marine Board (or equivalent).

Thanks a bunch.

-- 
Dave Kruger
Astoria, OR
sea kayaker

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