Pennsylvania 2025-2026 Regular Session

Pennsylvania Senate Bill SB1017

Introduced
9/19/25  

Caption

Providing for at-risk, derelict and abandoned boats; and imposing penalties.

Impact

The implications of SB1017 would not only affect boat owners but also local governments and environmental agencies tasked with enforcement. The bill aims to improve waterway safety and protect marine ecosystems by allowing for the swift removal of dilapidated vessels that can cause pollution or hinder navigation. Local stakeholders have expressed mixed feelings about the regulatory burden it might impose, though proponents argue that the benefits to public safety and environmental health justify such measures.

Summary

SB1017 aims to address the issue of at-risk, derelict, and abandoned boats in state waters by implementing a regulatory framework. The bill outlines specific measures for identifying, reporting, and handling boats that pose a threat to public safety and environmental integrity. Through these provisions, the legislation seeks to enhance state efforts in managing marine resources and ensuring safe navigation. By placing responsibilities on boat owners and establishing clear penalties for non-compliance, SB1017 aspires to mitigate hazards resulting from sunken, neglected vessels.

Sentiment

General sentiment surrounding SB1017 reflects concern for environmental protection alongside the necessity of public safety. Supporters view the bill as a essential tool for improving state management of marine resources. However, opponents raise concerns about potential overreach in regulating personal property and affecting small boat owners disproportionately. The discussion indicates that while there is a recognized need to address abandoned vessels, there is tension regarding the implementation of new penalties and regulations.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SB1017 involve the extent to which the state should regulate personal property—specifically boats—and the fairness of penalties imposed on owners. Critics worry that the bill may penalize boat owners who are unable to maintain their vessels due to financial hardship or other challenges. Additionally, the mechanisms for enforcement outlined in the bill have raised questions about the capacity of local jurisdictions to manage these new responsibilities effectively.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA HB103

Providing for at-risk, derelict and abandoned boats; and imposing penalties.

PA AB274

Abandoned and derelict vessels: inventory.

PA H887

Address Abandoned and Derelict Vessels

PA S505

Address Abandoned and Derelict Vessels

PA H4674

Disposal of abandoned and derelict aircraft

PA S0367

Abandoned Vessels, Derelict Vessels, and Sunken Vessels

PA HB1859

In firearms and other dangerous articles, further providing for persons not to possess, use, manufacture, control, sell or transfer firearms and for abandonment of firearms, weapons or ammunition; in community and municipal courts, further providing for masters; adding provisions relating to extreme risk protection orders; imposing duties on the Office of Attorney General; and imposing penalties.

PA HF2580

Removal and disposal of abandoned boats required, and criminal and civil penalties provided.

PA HB343

In tenement buildings and multiple dwelling premises, further providing for definitions and providing for borrowing requirements, for abandonment of residential rental property and for maintenance by receiver; and imposing penalties.

PA HB1109

Providing for compassionate aid in dying; and imposing penalties.

Similar Bills

FL S0164

Vessel Accountability

FL S1682

Local Administration of Vessel Restrictions

PA HB103

Providing for at-risk, derelict and abandoned boats; and imposing penalties.

FL H1149

Vessel Accountability

SC S0367

Abandoned Vessels, Derelict Vessels, and Sunken Vessels