Bill Text: IL SB2179 | 2025-2026 | 104th General Assembly | Introduced

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Bill Title: Amends the Boat Registration and Safety Act. Prohibits a person from falsifying information on any application to the Department of Natural Resources that is required to be provided to the Department by the Act. Provides that the navigation lights shall, at minimum, have an intensity so as to be visible at the minimum ranges as set forth in the Code of Federal Regulations. Provides that it is unlawful to operate a motorboat without a whistle, horn, or other appliance capable of producing a blast of 2 seconds or more duration and having an audible distance as set forth in the Code of Federal Regulations (rather than being audible for at least one-half mile). Prohibits a motorboat operator from operating a motorboat less than 26 feet in length that is equipped by the manufacturer with an engine cutoff switch if the switch is not in use while the motorboat is operating on plane or above displacement speed. Prohibits a person from operating a watercraft without first verifying that the engine cut-off switch is operational and fully functional and properly attaching the lanyard or wireless attachment to the operator's body or to the clothing or personal flotation device being worn by the operator. Provides that a power-driven vessel operating in narrow channels and proceeding downbound with a following current (rather than downstream) shall have the right-of-way over an upbound vessel, shall propose the manner and place of passage, and shall imitate the maneuvering signals as required by law. Changes the ages at which a person may operate a motorboat based on the speed of the motorboat. Prohibits certain marijuana use within certain areas of a watercraft while upon waters in the State. Requires the Department to outline the application process for passenger-for-hire licenses or rental boat licenses by administrative rule. Makes other changes.

Spectrum: Partisan Bill (Democrat 1-0)

Status: (Introduced) 2025-02-07 - Referred to Assignments [SB2179 Detail]

Download: Illinois-2025-SB2179-Introduced.html

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104TH GENERAL ASSEMBLY State of Illinois 2025 and 2026 SB2179 Introduced 2/7/2025, by Sen. Julie A. Morrison SYNOPSIS AS INTRODUCED:
See Index
Amends the Boat Registration and Safety Act. Prohibits a person from falsifying information on any application to the Department of Natural Resources that is required to be provided to the Department by the Act. Provides that the navigation lights shall, at minimum, have an intensity so as to be visible at the minimum ranges as set forth in the Code of Federal Regulations. Provides that it is unlawful to operate a motorboat without a whistle, horn, or other appliance capable of producing a blast of 2 seconds or more duration and having an audible distance as set forth in the Code of Federal Regulations (rather than being audible for at least one-half mile). Prohibits a motorboat operator from operating a motorboat less than 26 feet in length that is equipped by the manufacturer with an engine cutoff switch if the switch is not in use while the motorboat is operating on plane or above displacement speed. Prohibits a person from operating a watercraft without first verifying that the engine cut-off switch is operational and fully functional and properly attaching the lanyard or wireless attachment to the operator's body or to the clothing or personal flotation device being worn by the operator. Provides that a power-driven vessel operating in narrow channels and proceeding downbound with a following current (rather than downstream) shall have the right-of-way over an upbound vessel, shall propose the manner and place of passage, and shall imitate the maneuvering signals as required by law. Changes the ages at which a person may operate a motorboat based on the speed of the motorboat. Prohibits certain marijuana use within certain areas of a watercraft while upon waters in the State. Requires the Department to outline the application process for passenger-for-hire licenses or rental boat licenses by administrative rule. Makes other changes.
LRB104 12160 LNS 22261 b
A BILL FOR
SB2179 LRB104 12160 LNS 22261 b
AN ACT concerning transportation.
Be it enacted by the People of the State of Illinois,
represented in the General Assembly:
Section 5. The Boat Registration and Safety Act is amended
by changing Sections 1-2, 2-2, 3-11, 4-2, 4-4, 4-11, 5-13,
5-18, 7-1, and 7-2 and by adding Sections 5-24 and 5-25 as
follows:
(625 ILCS 45/1-2) (from Ch. 95 1/2, par. 311-2)
Sec. 1-2. Definitions. As used in this Act, unless the
context clearly requires a different meaning:
"Airboat" means a vessel that is typically flat-bottomed
and propelled by an aircraft-type propeller powered by an
engine.
"Boating accident" means a collision, accident, or
casualty involving a vessel in or upon, or entering into or
exiting from, the water, including capsizing, collision with
another vessel or object, sinking, personal injury, death,
disappearance of a person from on board under circumstances
that indicate the possibility of death or injury, or property
damage to any vessel or dock.
"Competent" means capable of assisting a water skier in
case of injury or accident.
"Consideration" means an economic benefit, inducement,

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right, or profit, including pecuniary payment accruing to an
individual, person, or entity, but not including a voluntary
sharing of the actual expense of the voyage, by monetary
contribution or donation of fuel, food, beverage, or other
supplies.
"Dealer" means any person who engages in the business of
manufacturing, selling, or dealing in, on consignment or
otherwise, any number of new watercraft or 5 or more used
watercraft of any make during the year, including any
off-highway vehicle dealer or snowmobile dealer or a person
licensed as a new or used vehicle dealer who also sells or
deals in, on consignment or otherwise, any number of
watercraft as defined in this Act.
"Department" means the Department of Natural Resources.
"Inland Rules" means the Inland Navigation Rules Act of
1980.
"International regulations" means the International
Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea, 1972, including
annexes currently in force for the United States.
"Leeward side" means the side of a vessel's sail that is
facing away or sheltered from the wind.
"Lifeboat" means a small boat kept on board a larger boat
for use in an emergency.
"Livery" means a person, corporation, company, business,
or entity that advertises a livery watercraft for use by
another, in exchange for any type of consideration and does

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not provide the renter or lessee with a captain, crew, or any
staff or personnel to operate, oversee, maintain, or manage
the watercraft.
"Motorboat" or "power-driven vessel" means any vessel
propelled by machinery whether such machinery is a principle
source of propulsion.
"Nonpowered watercraft" or "human-powered watercraft"
means any canoe, kayak, kiteboard, paddleboard, ribbed
inflatable, or any other watercraft propelled by oars,
paddles, or poles but not powered by sail, canvas, human body
part, or machinery of any sort.
"Operate" means to use, navigate, employ, or otherwise be
in actual physical control of a motorboat or vessel.
"Operator" means a person who operates or is in actual
physical control of a watercraft.
"Owner" means a person, other than a secured party, having
property rights or title to a watercraft. "Owner" includes a
person entitled to the use or possession of a motorboat
subject to an interest in another person, reserved or created
by agreement and securing payment of performance of an
obligation. "Owner" does not include a lessee under a lease
not intended as security.
"Passenger" means an individual carried on the vessel.
"Passenger" does not mean:
(1) the owner or individual representative of the
owner, or in the case of a chartered vessel, an individual

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charterer or individual representative of the charterer,
but in no case shall this exemption found in this
paragraph apply to more than one person that is physically
present on a vessel at any one time;
(2) the master; or
(3) a member of the crew engaged in the business of the
vessel who has not contributed consideration for carriage
and who is paid for on board services.
"Passenger for hire" means a passenger for whom
consideration is contributed as a condition of carriage on the
vessel.
"Person" means any individual, firm, corporation,
partnership, or association, and any agent, assignee, trustee,
executor, receiver, or representative thereof.
"Personal flotation device" or "PFD" means a device that
is approved by the Commandant, U.S. Coast Guard, under Part
160 of Title 46 of the Code of Federal Regulations.
"Personal injury" means any injury requiring treatment
beyond first aid.
"Personal watercraft" means a vessel propelled by a water
jet pump or other machinery as its primary source of motive
power and designed to be operated by a person sitting,
standing, or kneeling on the vessel, rather than within the
confines of a hull.
"Principally operated" means the vessel is or will be
primarily operated within the jurisdiction of the State during

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a calendar year.
"Recreational boat" means any vessel manufactured or used
primarily for noncommercial use, or leased, rented, or
chartered to another for noncommercial use.
"Sailboat" or "sailing vessel" means any vessel under sail
so long as the propelling machinery, if fitted, is not being
used.
"Seaplane" means any aircraft designed to maneuver on the
water.
"Specialty prop-craft" means a vessel that is similar in
appearance and operation to a personal watercraft but that is
powered by an outboard or propeller driven motor.
"Throwable PFD" has the meaning provided in 33 CFR 175.13.
"Underway" applies to a vessel or watercraft at all times
except when it is moored at a dock or anchorage area.
"Use" applies to all vessels on the waters of this State,
whether moored or underway.
"Vessel" or "watercraft" means every device or boat
watercraft used or capable of being used as a means of
transportation on water, except a seaplane on the water, air
mattress or similar device, and boats used for concession
rides in artificial bodies of water designed and used
exclusively for such concessions.
"Waters of this State" means any water within the
jurisdiction of this State.
"Wearable U.S. Coast Guard approved personal flotation

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device", "wearable U.S. Coast Guard approved PFD", and
"wearable PFD" have the meaning provided for "wearable PFD" in
33 CFR 175.13.
"Windward side" means the side of a vessel's sail that has
the wind blowing into the sail.
"Wing in Ground" (WIG) vessel means a multimodal vessel
which, in its main operational mode, flies in close proximity
to the surface utilizing surface-effect action.
(Source: P.A. 102-595, eff. 6-1-22.)
(625 ILCS 45/2-2) (from Ch. 95 1/2, par. 312-2)
Sec. 2-2. Inspection; removal; impoundment.
(a) Agents of the Department or other duly authorized
police officers may board and inspect any watercraft boat at
any time for the purpose of determining if this Act is being
complied with. If the boarding officer or agent discovers any
violation of this Act, he may issue a summons to the operator
of the boat requiring that the operator appear before the
circuit court for the county within which the offense was
committed.
(b) Every watercraft vessel subject to this Act, if under
way and upon being hailed by a designated law enforcement
officer, must stop immediately and lay to.
(c) Agents of the Department and other duly authorized
police officers may enforce all federal laws and regulations
which have been mutually agreed upon by the federal and state

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governments and are applicable to the operation of watercraft
on navigable waters and federal impoundments where concurrent
jurisdiction exists between the federal and state governments.
(d) Agents of the Department and other duly authorized
police officers may seize and impound, at the owner's or
operator's expense, any watercraft involved in a boating
accident or a violation of Section 3A-21, 5-1, 5-2, or 5-16 of
this Act.
(e) If a watercraft is causing a traffic hazard because of
its position on a waterway or its physical appearance is
causing the impeding of traffic, its immediate removal from
the waterway by a towing service may be authorized by a law
enforcement agency having jurisdiction.
(f) Whenever a peace officer reasonably believes that a
person under arrest for a violation of Section 5-1, 5-2, or
5-16 of this Act or similar provision of a local ordinance, is
likely, upon release, to commit a subsequent violation of
Section 5-1, 5-2, or 5-16 or a similar provision of a local
ordinance, the arresting officer shall have the watercraft
which the person was operating at the time of the arrest
impounded for a period of not more than 12 hours after the time
of the arrest. The watercraft may be released by the arresting
law enforcement agency without impoundment, or may be released
prior to the end of the impoundment period, however, if:
(1) the watercraft was not owned by the person under
arrest, and the lawful owner requesting release possesses

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proof of ownership, and would not, as determined by the
arresting law enforcement agency: (i) indicate a lack of
ability to operate a watercraft in a safe manner, or (ii)
otherwise, by operating the watercraft, be in violation of
this Act; or
(2) the watercraft is owned by the person under
arrest, and the person under arrest gives permission to
another person to operate the watercraft, and the other
person would not, as determined by the arresting law
enforcement agency: (i) indicate a lack of ability to
operate a watercraft in a safe manner, or (ii) otherwise,
by operating the watercraft, be in violation of this Act.
(Source: P.A. 93-156, eff. 1-1-04.)
(625 ILCS 45/3-11) (from Ch. 95 1/2, par. 313-11)
Sec. 3-11. Penalty. No person shall at any time:
(a) falsely alter or change in any manner a certificate of
number issued under the provisions hereof; , or
(b) falsify any record required by this Act; ,
(c) falsify information on any application to the
Department that is required to be provided to the Department
by this Act; or
(d) counterfeit any form of license provided for by this
Act.
(Source: P.A. 100-469, eff. 6-1-18.)

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(625 ILCS 45/4-2) (from Ch. 95 1/2, par. 314-2)
Sec. 4-2. Navigation lights.
A. Watercraft subject to this Section shall be divided
into classes as follows:
1. Class 1: Less than 16 feet in length.
2. Class 2: 16 feet or over and less than 26 feet in
length.
3. Class 3: 26 feet or over and less than 40 feet in
length.
4. Class 4: 40 feet or over and less than 65 feet in
length.
B. Every motorboat, underway from sunset to sunrise or
underway in weather causing reduced visibility, shall carry
and exhibit the following United States Coast Guard approved
lights when underway and, during such time, shall not use any
other lights that may be mistaken for or interfere with those
prescribed as follows:
1. A Class 1 or Class 2 motorboat shall carry the
following lights:
(a) A bright white light aft to show all around the
horizon; and
(b) A combined light in the fore part of the
watercraft and lower than the white light aft, showing
green to starboard and red to port, so fixed as to
throw the light from right ahead to 2 points (22.5
degrees) abaft the beam on their respective sides.

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2. A Class 3 or Class 4 motorboat shall carry the
following lights:
(a) A bright white light in the fore part of the
watercraft as near the stern as practicable, so
constructed as to show the unbroken light over an arc
of the horizon of 20 points (225 degrees) of the
compass, so fixed as to throw the light 10 points
(112.5 degrees) on each side of the watercraft,
namely, from right ahead to 2 points (22.5 degrees)
abaft the beam on either side;
(b) A bright white light aft, mounted higher than
the white light forward, to show all around the
horizon; and
(c) On the starboard side, a green light so
constructed as to show an unbroken light over an arc of
the horizon of 10 points (112.5 degrees) of the
compass, so fixed as to throw the light from right
ahead to 2 points (22.5 degrees) abaft the beam on the
starboard side. On the port side, a red light so
constructed as to show an unbroken light over an arc of
the horizon of 10 points (112.5 degrees) of the
compass, so fixed as to throw the light from right
ahead to 2 points (22.5 degrees) abaft the beam on the
port side. The side lights shall be fitted with
inboard screens so set as to prevent these lights from
being seen across the bow.

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3. A Class 1 or Class 2 motorboat propelled by sail
alone shall exhibit the combined light prescribed by
paragraph (1) and a 12-point (135 degrees) white light
aft. A Class 3 or Class 4 motorboat, when so propelled,
shall exhibit the colored side lights, suitably screened
as prescribed by paragraph (2) and a 12-point (135
degrees) white light aft.
4. Every white light prescribed by this Section shall
be of such character as to be visible at a distance of at
least 2 miles. Every colored light prescribed by this
Section shall be of such character as to be visible at a
distance of at least one mile. As used in this subsection
"visible", when applied to lights, means visible on a dark
night with clear atmosphere.
5. If propelled by sail and machinery, a motorboat
shall carry the lights required by this Section for a
motorboat propelled by machinery only.
6. All other watercraft over 65 feet in length and
those propelled solely by wind effect on the sail shall
display lights prescribed by federal regulations.
C. Nonpowered watercraft shall carry, ready at hand, a
lantern or flashlight showing a white light that shall be
exhibited in sufficient time to avert collision. Manually
propelled watercraft used on the waters of this State where
power-driven vessels are prohibited are exempt from the
provisions of this Section.

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D. Any watercraft may carry and exhibit the lights
required by the international regulations in lieu of the
lights required by subsection B of this Section.
E. All watercraft, when anchored, other than in a special
anchorage area as defined in 33 CFR 109.10, shall, from sunset
to sunrise, carry and display a steady white light visible all
around the horizon for a distance of no less than 2 miles.
F. The lights prescribed in this Section shall at minimum
have an intensity so as to be visible at the minimum ranges as
set forth in 33 CFR 83.22 (Blank).
G. (Blank).
(Source: P.A. 102-595, eff. 6-1-22.)
(625 ILCS 45/4-4) (from Ch. 95 1/2, par. 314-4)
Sec. 4-4. Whistles.) It is unlawful to operate a motorboat
without a mouth, hand or power operated whistle, horn or other
appliance, capable of producing a blast of 2 seconds or more
duration and having an audible distance as set forth in 33 CFR
86.01 for at least one-half mile.
(Source: P.A. 82-783.)
(625 ILCS 45/4-11) (from Ch. 95 1/2, par. 314-11)
Sec. 4-11. Engine cut-off switch.
(a) As used in this Section:
"Engine cut-off switch link" means the lanyard or wireless
cut-off device used to attach the motorboat operator to the

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engine cut-off switch installed on the motorboat.
"Engine cut-off switch" means an emergency switch
installed on a motorboat that:
(1) is designed to shut off the engine if:
(A) the motorboat operator using a lanyard
attachment activates the switch by falling overboard
or otherwise moving beyond the length of the lanyard;
or
(B) the motorboat operator or a passenger
using a wireless attachment activates the switch by
falling overboard and submerging a man-overboard
transmitter; and
(2) attaches:
(A) physically to the motorboat operator
through the use of a lanyard worn by the operator; or
(B) wirelessly through the use of a
water-activated man-overboard transmitter worn by the
motorboat operator or any similarly equipped passenger
on the motorboat. means an operational emergency
cut-off engine stop switch installed on a motorboat
that attaches to a motorboat operator by an engine
cut-off switch link.
(b) A motorboat operator may not operate a motorboat less
than 26 feet in length that is equipped by the manufacturer
with an engine cutoff switch and such switch is not in use
while the motorboat is operating on plane or above

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displacement speed. No person may operate a watercraft without
first verifying that the engine cut-off switch is operational
and fully functional and properly attaching the lanyard or
wireless attachment, as appropriate for the specific
motorboat, to the operator's body or to the clothing or
personal flotation device being worn by the operator.
(c) The requirement under paragraph (1) of subsection (a)
shall not apply if:
(A) the main helm of the covered vessel is installed
within an enclosed cabin; or
(B) the vessel does not have an engine cut-off switch.
No person may operate any motor boat, including personal
watercraft or specialty prop-craft, equipped with an
engine cut-off switch while the engine is running and the
motorboat is underway without verifying that the engine
cut-off switch is operational and fully-functional and:
(1) the engine cut-off switch link is properly
attached to his or her person, clothing or worn PFD, as
appropriate for the specific vessel; or
(2) activating the wireless cut-off system.
(Source: P.A. 96-1033, eff. 7-14-10.)
(625 ILCS 45/5-13) (from Ch. 95 1/2, par. 315-8)
Sec. 5-13. Traffic rules.
A. The area straight ahead of a vessel to the point that is
22.5 degrees beyond the middle of the vessel on the starboard

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side of the watercraft shall be designated the danger zone. An
operator of a watercraft shall yield the right-of-way to any
other watercraft occupying or entering into the danger zone
that may result in collision.
A-5. Head-on situation.
(1) If 2 power-driven vessels are meeting head-on or
nearly head-on courses so as to involve risk of collision,
each shall alter course to starboard so that each shall
pass on the port side of the other.
(2) A vessel proceeding along the course of a narrow
channel or canal shall keep as near to the outer limit of
the channel or canal that lies on the starboard side as is
safe and practicable.
(3) A power-driven vessel operating in narrow channels
and proceeding downbound with a following current
downstream shall have the right-of-way over an upbound
vessel, shall propose the manner and place of passage, and
shall imitate the maneuvering signals as required by law a
vessel proceeding upstream. The vessel proceeding upstream
shall yield as necessary to permit safe passing.
B. Crossing. As used in this Section, "crossing" means 2
or more watercraft traveling in directions that would have the
path of travel of the watercraft intersect each other.
(1) If 2 power-driven vessels are crossing so as to
involve the risk of collision, the vessel that has the
other on the starboard side shall keep out of the way and

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shall avoid crossing ahead of the other vessel.
(2) A power-driven vessel crossing a river shall keep
out of the way of a power-driven vessel ascending or
descending the river.
(3) A vessel may not cross a narrow channel or canal if
the crossing impedes the passage of a vessel that can only
safely navigate within the channel or canal.
C. Overtaking.
(1) A vessel overtaking any other shall give way to
the vessel being overtaken.
(2) If a vessel operator is in doubt as to whether he
or she is overtaking another vessel, the operator shall
assume he or she is overtaking the other vessel and shall
act accordingly.
(3) Any subsequent alteration of the bearing between
the 2 vessels shall not make the overtaking vessel a
crossing vessel within the meaning of this Section or
relieve the overtaking operator of the duty to keep clear
of the overtaken vessel until finally past and clear.
(4) When overtaking in a narrow channel or canal, the
operator of a power-driven vessel intending to overtake
another power-driven vessel shall proceed to pass safety
only after indicating his or her intention by sounding the
horn as follows:
(a) one short blast from the horn signifies a
request to pass on the overtaken vessel's starboard

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side;
(b) 2 short blasts from the horn signify a request
to pass on the overtaken vessel's port side.
(5) The operator of the power-driven vessel being
overtaken shall:
(a) acknowledge the request by sounding the same
signal; or
(b) sound 5 short blasts from the horn to indicate
danger or to warn the overtaking vessel not to pass.
No response from the overtaken vessel shall be
interpreted as an indication of danger and is the same as
if 5 short blasts from the horn were sounded. In the
absence of an audible signal or horn, a light signal
device using the appropriate number of rapid bursts of
light may be used.
D. Sailing vessels.
(1) The operator of a power-driven vessel shall yield
the right-of-way to any nonpowered or sailing vessel
unless the nonpowered vessel is overtaking the
power-driven vessel or when a large craft is navigating in
a confined channel, the large craft has the right-of-way
over a boat propelled solely by oars or sails.
(2) If 2 sailing vessels are approaching one another,
so as to involve risk of collision, one of them shall keep
out of the way of the other as follows:
(a) If each has the wind on a different side, the

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vessel that has the wind on the port side shall give
way to the other vessel.
(b) If both have the wind on the same side, the
vessel that is to windward shall give way to the vessel
that is to leeward.
(c) If a vessel with the wind on the port side sees
a vessel to windward and cannot determine with
certainty whether the other vessel has the wind on the
port or starboard side, the vessel shall give way to
the other vessel.
(Source: P.A. 102-595, eff. 6-1-22.)
(625 ILCS 45/5-18) (from Ch. 95 1/2, par. 315-13)
Sec. 5-18. (a) No Beginning on January 1, 2016, no person
born on or after January 1, 1998, unless exempted by
subsection (i), shall operate a motorboat with over 10 horse
power unless that person has a valid Boating Safety
Certificate issued by the Department of Natural Resources or
an entity or organization recognized and approved by the
Department.
(b) No person under 10 years of age may operate a
motorboat.
(c) Persons Prior to January 1, 2016, persons at least 10
years of age and less than 12 years of age may operate a
motorboat with over 10 horse power only if they are
accompanied on the motorboat and under the direct control of a

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parent or guardian or a person at least 18 years of age
designated by a parent or guardian. Beginning on January 1,
2016, persons at least 10 years of age and less than 12 years
of age may operate a motorboat with over 10 horse power only if
the person is under the direct on-board supervision of a
parent or guardian who meets the requirements of subsection
(a) or a person at least 18 years of age who meets the
requirements of subsection (a) and is designated by a parent
or guardian.
(d) Persons Prior to January 1, 2016, persons at least 12
years of age and less than 18 years of age may operate a
motorboat with over 10 horse power only if they are
accompanied on the motorboat and under the direct control of a
parent or guardian or a person at least 18 years of age
designated by a parent or guardian, or the motorboat operator
is in possession of a Boating Safety Certificate issued by the
Department of Natural Resources, Division of Law Enforcement,
authorizing the holder to operate motorboats. Beginning on
January 1, 2016, persons at least 12 years and less than 18
years of age may operate a motorboat with over 10 horse power
only if the person meets the requirements of subsection (a) or
is under the direct on-board supervision of a parent or
guardian who meets the requirements of subsection (a) or a
person at least 18 years of age who meets the requirements of
subsection (a) and is designated by a parent or guardian.
(e) The Beginning January 1, 2016, the owner of a

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motorboat or a person given supervisory authority over a
motorboat shall not permit a motorboat with over 10 horse
power to be operated by a person who does not meet the Boating
Safety Certificate requirements of this Section.
(f) Licensed boat liveries shall offer abbreviated
operating and safety instruction covering core boat safety
rules to all renters, unless the renter can demonstrate
compliance with the Illinois Boating Safety Certificate
requirements of this Section, or is exempt under subsection
(i) of this Section. A person who completes abbreviated
operating and safety instruction may operate a motorboat
rented from the livery providing the abbreviated operating and
safety instruction without having a Boating Safety Certificate
for up to one year from the date of instruction. The Department
shall adopt rules to implement this subsection.
(g) Violations.
(1) A person who is operating a motorboat with over 10
horse power and is required to have a valid Boating Safety
Certificate under the provisions of this Section shall
present the certificate to a law enforcement officer upon
request. Failure of the person to present the certificate
upon request is a petty offense.
(2) A person who provides false or fictitious
information in an application for a Boating Safety
Certificate; or who alters, forges, counterfeits, or
falsifies a Boating Safety Certificate; or who possesses a

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Boating Safety Certificate that has been altered, forged,
counterfeited, or falsified is guilty of a Class A
misdemeanor.
(3) A person who loans or permits his or her Boating
Safety Certificate to be used by another person or who
operates a motorboat with over 10 horse power using a
Boating Safety Certificate that has not been issued to
that person is guilty of a Class A misdemeanor.
(4) A violation of this Section done with the
knowledge of a parent or guardian shall be deemed a
violation by the parent or guardian and punishable under
Section 11A-1.
(h) The Department of Natural Resources shall establish a
program of instruction on boating safety, laws, regulations
and administrative laws, and any other subject matter which
might be related to the subject of general boat safety. The
program shall be conducted by instructors certified by the
Department of Natural Resources. The course of instruction for
persons certified to teach boating safety shall be not less
than 8 hours in length, and the Department shall have the
authority to revoke the certification of any instructor who
has demonstrated his inability to conduct courses on the
subject matter. The Department of Natural Resources shall
develop and provide a method for students to complete the
program online. Students satisfactorily completing a program
of not less than 8 hours in length shall receive a certificate

SB2179 - 22 - LRB104 12160 LNS 22261 b
of safety from the Department of Natural Resources. The
Department may cooperate with schools, online vendors, private
clubs and other organizations in offering boating safety
courses throughout the State of Illinois.
The Department shall issue certificates of boating safety
to persons 10 years of age or older successfully completing
the prescribed course of instruction and passing such tests as
may be prescribed by the Department. The Department may charge
each person who enrolls in a course of instruction a fee not to
exceed $5. If a fee is authorized by the Department, the
Department shall authorize instructors conducting such courses
meeting standards established by it to charge for the rental
of facilities or for the cost of materials utilized in the
course. Fees retained by the Department shall be utilized to
defray a part of its expenses to operate the safety and
accident reporting programs of the Department.
(i) A Boating Safety Certificate is not required by:
(1) a person who possesses a valid United States Coast
Guard commercial vessel operator's license or a marine
certificate issued by the Canadian government;
(2) a person employed by the United States, this
State, another state, or a subdivision thereof while in
performance of his or her official duties;
(3) a person who is not a resident, is temporarily
using the waters of this State for a period not to exceed
90 days, and meets any applicable boating safety education

SB2179 - 23 - LRB104 12160 LNS 22261 b
requirements of his or her state of residency or possesses
a Canadian Pleasure Craft Operator's Card;
(4) a person who is a resident of this State who has
met the applicable boating safety education requirements
of another state or possesses a Canadian Pleasure Craft
Operator's Card;
(5) a person who has assumed operation of the
motorboat due to the illness or physical impairment of the
operator, and is returning the motorboat or personal
watercraft to shore in order to provide assistance or care
for that operator;
(6) a person who is registered as a commercial
fisherman or a person who is under the onboard direct
supervision of the commercial fisherman while operating
the commercial fisherman's vessel;
(7) a person who is serving or has qualified as a
surface warfare officer or enlisted surface warfare
specialist in the United States Navy;
(8) a person who has assumed operation of the
motorboat for the purpose of completing a watercraft
safety course approved by the Department, the U.S. Coast
Guard, or the National Association of State Boating Law
Administrators;
(9) a person using only an electric motor to propel
the motorboat;
(10) a person operating a motorboat on private

SB2179 - 24 - LRB104 12160 LNS 22261 b
property;
(11) a person over the age of 12 years who holds a
valid certificate issued by another state, a province of
the Dominion of Canada, the United States Coast Guard
Auxiliary or the United States Power Squadron need not
obtain a certificate from the Department if the course
content of the program in such other state, province or
organization substantially meets that established by the
Department under this Section. A certificate issued by the
Department or by another state, province of the Dominion
of Canada or approved organization shall not constitute an
operator's license, but shall certify only that the
student has successfully passed a course in boating safety
instruction; or
(12) a person who is temporarily using the waters of
this State for the purpose of participating in a boat
racing event sanctioned by the Department of Natural
Resources or authorized federal agency. The organizer or
holder of the sanctioned event shall possess liability
insurance for property damage and bodily injury or death
with a minimum benefit of $1,000,000 that shall remain in
effect through the entirety of the event.
(j) The Department of Natural Resources shall adopt rules
necessary to implement this Section. The Department of Natural
Resources shall consult and coordinate with the boating
public, professional organizations for recreational boating

SB2179 - 25 - LRB104 12160 LNS 22261 b
safety, and the boating retail, leasing, and dealer business
community in the adoption of these rules.
(Source: P.A. 98-698, eff. 1-1-15; 99-78, eff. 7-20-15;
99-526, eff. 7-8-16.)
(625 ILCS 45/5-24 new)
Sec. 5-24. Possession of medical cannabis on a watercraft.
(a) No operator, who is a medical cannabis cardholder, may
use medical cannabis within the passenger area of any
watercraft upon waters in this State.
(b) No operator, who is a medical cannabis cardholder, a
medical cannabis designated caregiver, medical cannabis
cultivation center agent, or dispensing organization agent may
possess medical cannabis within any area of any watercraft
upon waters in this State except in a secured, sealed or
resealable, odor-proof, and child-resistant medical cannabis
container that is inaccessible.
(c) No passenger, who is a medical cannabis card holder, a
medical cannabis designated caregiver, or medical cannabis
dispensing organization agent may possess medical cannabis
within any passenger area of any watercraft upon waters in
this State except in a secured, sealed or resealable,
odor-proof, and child-resistant medical cannabis container
that is inaccessible.
(d) Any person who violates subsections (a) through (c):
(1) commits a Class A misdemeanor;

SB2179 - 26 - LRB104 12160 LNS 22261 b
(2) shall be subject to revocation of his or her
medical cannabis card for 2 years from the end of the
sentence imposed; and
(3) shall be subject to revocation of his or her
status as a medical cannabis caregiver, medical cannabis
cultivation center agent, or medical cannabis dispensing
organization agent for 2 years from the end of the
sentence imposed.
(625 ILCS 45/5-25 new)
Sec. 5-25. Possession of adult use cannabis on a
watercraft.
(a) No operator may use cannabis within the passenger area
of any watercraft upon waters in this State.
(b) No operator may possess cannabis within any area of
any watercraft upon waters in this State except in a secured,
sealed or resealable, odor-proof, child-resistant cannabis
container that is inaccessible.
(c) No passenger may possess cannabis within any passenger
area of any watercraft upon waters in this State except in a
secured, sealed or resealable, odor-proof, child-resistant
cannabis container that is inaccessible.
(d) Any person who knowingly violates subsection (a), (b),
or (c) commits a Class A misdemeanor.
(625 ILCS 45/7-1) (from Ch. 95 1/2, par. 317-1)

SB2179 - 27 - LRB104 12160 LNS 22261 b
Sec. 7-1. It On and after March 1, 1960 it shall be
unlawful for any person to engage in the business of operating
a boat or boats carrying passengers for hire, or renting a boat
or boats for hire without first having obtained a license so to
do from the Department. Such license shall be renewable each
year on January March 1st, shall be good only for one year or
portion of a year up to and including December 31st March 1st,
and it shall be unlawful for such person to so engage in such
business without having a valid license currently then in
force. The Department shall outline the application process
for passenger-for-hire licenses or rental boat licenses by
administrative rule. Violations of this Act by a business or
individual holding a rental license or passenger-for-hire
license shall result in the suspension or revocation of the
license issued based on the procedures outlined in
administrative rule.
(Source: P.A. 85-149.)
(625 ILCS 45/7-2) (from Ch. 95 1/2, par. 317-2)
Sec. 7-2. License fee. The fee for a license to operate a
boat for carrying passengers for hire shall be established by
administrative rule $50 for each boat. The fee for a license
for engaging in the business of renting boats for hire and the
shall be $30, plus an annual fee for each boat rented or
offered for rent shall be set by administrative rule of $1 for
each boat less than 16 feet in length; $2 for each boat 16 feet

SB2179 - 28 - LRB104 12160 LNS 22261 b
or over and less than 26 feet in length; and $8 for each boat
26 feet or over in length. No boat shall, after March 1, 1960,
be rented or offered for rent until such license has been
granted and the boat marked as hereinafter provided.
(Source: P.A. 85-149.)
SB2179 - 29 - LRB104 12160 LNS 22261 b
INDEX
Statutes amended in order of appearance
625 ILCS 45/1-2 from Ch. 95 1/2, par. 311-2
625 ILCS 45/2-2 from Ch. 95 1/2, par. 312-2
625 ILCS 45/3-11 from Ch. 95 1/2, par. 313-11
625 ILCS 45/4-2 from Ch. 95 1/2, par. 314-2
625 ILCS 45/4-4 from Ch. 95 1/2, par. 314-4
625 ILCS 45/4-11 from Ch. 95 1/2, par. 314-11
625 ILCS 45/5-13 from Ch. 95 1/2, par. 315-8
625 ILCS 45/5-18 from Ch. 95 1/2, par. 315-13
625 ILCS 45/5-24 new
625 ILCS 45/5-25 new
625 ILCS 45/7-1 from Ch. 95 1/2, par. 317-1
625 ILCS 45/7-2 from Ch. 95 1/2, par. 317-2