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Illinois News
April 22, 2010
BoatUS Alert: Boaters need to let their voices be heard!
The Illinois General Assembly and DNR are currently working on legislation that will require adults to wear lifejackets while they are alone underway on boats under 26'. (If you are on a sailboard or fishing with some engine use you are exempt.) But because 96% of the boats in Illinois are less than 26' long, this bill has the potential to touch many people.
BoatUS supports the voluntary use of life jackets and safe boating practices. In a recent survey, many of our members expressed significant concern about the government mandating when and where adults must wear life jackets.
Given the immediacy of this issue in your state, we encourage you to contact your state representative today and tell them how you feel about Senate Bill 3060. This bill has passed the Senate, went through the House Committee Tuesday, and is now on the home stretch headed to a full House vote. Time is of the essence - let your elected officials know how you feel today!
Click here to get your Representative's contact information: http://tinyurl.com/3a7awnb
For more information:
Bill language: Illinois Senate Bill 3060
Summary of the bill and current status: Bill Summary
The US Coast Guard's National Recreational Boating Statistics: 2008 Report
Page 42 outlines that nationwide less than 25% of the 709 boating deaths were on boats with one occupant.
September 11, 2009
Great News for Great Loop Cruisers: Coast Guard To Allow Recreational Boats To Transit The Chicago Ship Canal Fish Barrier
Following several weeks of effort by BoatU.S. and the America's Great Loop Cruisers Association, new procedures were announced today by the U.S. Coast Guard to reopen the Chicago Ship Channel electric fish barrier. Since the middle of August unescorted recreational boats have been prohibited from moving through this area due to an increase in its voltage.
BoatU.S. greatly appreciates the coordination of the U.S. Coast Guard and the Army Corps of Engineers to both prevent Asian Carp from reaching the Great Lakes and to accommodate continued navigation by recreational and commercial boats.
There are specific safety requirements and no boats under 20' are allowed. Click here for information from the Coast Guard on these procedures.
For the BoatU.S. press release on this issue, click here.
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