A grassroots effort by many in the boating industry has led to an important victory for the estimated 17 million recreational boaters in the United States. On July 29, 2008, President Bush signed the Clean Boating Act of 2008. This is probably the biggest legislative victory for the boating industry since the repeal of the boat luxury tax in 1993. This important Act will permanently restore the previously long-standing exemption for recreational boats from having to obtain a discharge permit.  Under the Clean Water Act pleasure boaters were caught up in a law meant to mandate treatment of ballast water in large commercial ships. It would have required all vessel owners to get expensive permits in each state that the boat operated in.

It is estimated that 150,000 people sent emails to Congress on this issue. The National Marine Manufacturers Association, BoatU.S., and a coalition including outdoor enthusiasts, conservation groups with diverse backgrounds, and boat owners rallied together to help accomplish this important victory. It is even more impressive when you consider that on average it takes Congress seven years to pass a bill and in this instance the time was cut to 4 ½ years. Plus it was done at a time of gridlock in Washington resulting in Congress passing very few bills.

With all the obstacles we are facing in the boating industry from outrageous insurance rates to high fuel prices it is refreshing to have something go our way. Whiteaker Yacht Sales applauds everyone who participated and made their voice heard on this important issue. It is a very good example of what we can accomplish if we all work together.