Boat Registration Fees to Increase

[B-Faithful]

Thanks Vince. As I posted in the other thread:

In an activity where participation levels drive the economic benefits, large fee increases only stand to discourage participation.

Remember the federal luxury tax on large expensive boats. It was not that people couldn't afford the tax, it just discouraged their sale. Growing up in NJ with a number of large boat manufacturers, the lux tax certainly hurt the local economy. I see the same potential here. Will the guy who didn't use his older boat that much the last few years spend the money on parts, service or repair when faced with a big increase in state fees. The fees may be enough to discourage his participation. Whether or not they are, I don't know. But if enough do, the fees will stand to hurt commerce. (And the state stands to lose ramp fees, gas tax revenue, sales tax on parts, service, etc. - all while small businesses lose profit) Remember fees don't have to be enouh that one cannot afford, just enough to discourage participation.

[NachoLibre]

The real issue here isn't increasing the fees, it's ensuring that the funds are earmarked to be used exclusively by DNR--in a fiscally responsible manner. If that would be the case, we should all be FOR the increase, as they would be used for the enforcement of our fisheries laws. Given that it's the government, the reality is that the funds would get evaporated into the general fund to patch up some historical spending deficit. So...why not work on pinning the government down to allocating the funds appropriately, rather than looking like we only care about enforcing fishieries laws when it doesn't cost us more? IMO, the MSSA is missing an opportunity here and is exposing itself to coming off as hipocrites.

[trapshoot]

I want to thank all that have participated with this. We have had over 400 anglers respond to this link. It has sent over 400 emails to the govenor, state delegates and newpspers. We are getting our voice heard.

I have personnally received email responses from my state delegates and they both say that this bill would deter our anglers from thier passion. They have both assured me that they would vote against this bill. They have also ask that we continue our plan to oppose this bill. . Please if you have not done so and you oppose this bill, follow the link and send the emails to your delegates.

Again, Thanks for all of the help. Your voice is being heard.

Vince

[J bones]

MSSA is missing the boat here. I am a member. Can I get some background of how MSSA comes to positions like this? Let's be clear, I am opposed to fee increase going to general funds, but am 100% in favor of a fee increase to support the DNR/NRP. I believe that would be the proper stance for MSSA. We need accountability for the fee increase not just a blind opposition as in the letter provided. This as Nacho described above is a missed opportunity in my opinion. The letter on the link is poor, and the message is poor.

[Jerry Grimes]

The direction fuel is headed fees are the least of your worries,for the forseable future.

[Z28YJ]

For a guy wearing a cape, kneepads, and spandex, ol' Nacho man makes sense every so often.

[trapshoot]

Let me try to explain.

MSSA is not opposed to a rate increase. MSSA is not opposed to monies going to DNR/NRP.

What MSSA is opposed to is this bill 1307. It has a 500% increase to the fees for boats between 16 to 32 feet. The money raised by this will go into the general fund where the govenor can use it anyway he see fits There are no assurances or gaurantees that the money will be used for its intended purpose.It does not have to go to the DNR/NRP.

Vince

[jethrosixxx]

Emails sent. BOAT/US has a similar email mechanism in effect.

[NachoLibre]

For a guy wearing a cape, kneepads, and spandex, ol' Nacho man makes sense every so often.

I'm more than just brains, looks, charm, style, sense of humor, and humility.

[J bones]

Then I am opposed 100%. However, I would like to see the letter expanded upon to reflect our interests and willingness to pay more money to support the DNR/NRP and recreational fishing and boating interests.