Apr. 21, 2008 – PWC Digest
Update on Federal Discharge Permits
An update on the federal discharge permits we covered earlier this year: Barring an act of Congress, every recreational boater in the country could be required to obtain a federal or state permit in order to continue operating any boat, including a PWC. The permits apply to any operational water discharge your boat produces, including engine cooling water.
To remedy the situation, Sen. Barbara Boxer (D-Calif.) and Sen.Bill Nelson (D-Fla.) recently introduced the Clean Boating Act of 2008 (S 2766), which would permanently restore a 35-year exemption for recreational boat incidental discharges. The bill recognizes that pleasure boat discharges are different from land-based industrial facilities and commercial ships.
The National Marine Manufacturers Association is urging all its members and all those in the boating industry to contact their senators and urge them to co-sponsor The Clean Boating Act of 2008. This can be done quickly and easily by visiting www.boatblue.org. The association considers the permits to be the most significant threat currently facing the boating industry.
New Finance Options For Docks, Lifts, Trailers
GE Money has entered into a multi-year agreement with Floe International, manufacturer of dock and boat lift systems, as well as recreational trailers, to provide consumer financing for the products through the GE Money FUNancing installment program.
The agreement, announced April 4, offers waterfront property owners a cost-effective way to enhance their property with a modern modular docking and/or lift system.
Interested dealers can contact Cristy Williams at GE Money, 678/518-2596, cristy.williams@ge.com. The products can be viewed at www.floeintl.com. PSB
