Government Affairs

BoatUS Government Affairs advocates on behalf of recreational boat owners on Capitol Hill and before the federal agencies in Washington. These articles capture the advocacy work our team conducts, and brings attention to new boating and fishing laws on the horizon that could affect all boaters.

What Does ‘Made In America’ Mean?

While most boats sold in the U.S. are built here, they’re not insulated from the effects of recent tariffs. Let’s dig in to find out just how multinational our boats really are.

Pay Attention To Buoy ‘Modernization’ Plans

Boaters get another chance to comment on the plan to remove 100-plus federally maintained coastal buoys from New York City to the Canadian border.

Northeast Boaters: Weigh In On Proposed Buoy Removals

Don’t miss your chance to comment on a proposed removal of dozens of federally maintained coastal buoys from New York City to the Canadian border.

The Taxes That Come Back To Boaters

Since 1950, the Sport Fish Restoration and Boating Trust Fund – up for reauthorization in September 2026 – has provided more than $40 billion for state-based conservation programs.

New Boating Laws In The Sunshine State

Florida legislators restrict anchoring options but prohibit 'safety compliance' stops and strengthen enforcement over derelict vessels.

Proposed Budget Would Impact Fundamental NOAA Services For Boaters

The Trump administration recommends stripping funding for real-time weather, hurricane forecasting, fisheries recovery, research and education, grants, and more.

There’s A Storm Brewing At NOAA

Layoffs and budget cuts are expected to affect boater safety, weather forecasting, navigation, and recreational access.

New Boating Education Law In New England

The growing list of states requiring some form of safe boating education before taking the helm continues to grow with Massachusetts filling out the entire Northeast U.S.

Government Agencies: The Quiet Professionals

What do government agencies actually accomplish for boaters? Here’s an inside look at how they keep us safe and our waterways clean – and why we need them to be experts in their fields