No to House Bill 1018 - Requires a Boater Education Card for Kayakers/Sup/Canoe
No to House Bill 1018 - Requires a Boater Education Card for Kayakers/Sup/Canoe
Why this petition matters
Washington HB 1018 would require kayakers, canoeists, and paddleboarders to take a boater education course, pass a boater education exam, and purchase a boater education card to kayak, canoe or SUP in the state. It would put additional restrictions on youth participation in the sport as well.
While we support safe participation in paddle sports, this isn't the way. The boater education course is geared toward large motorized craft and isn't appropriate for kayakers.
Additionally, these requirements will create unnecessary burdens on Washington residents in ways that will make it more difficult for lower-income individuals to participate.
Paddling is an ideal sport for the COVID-19 era. It promotes physical as well as mental health. We should be encouraging and not discouraging outdoor paddlesport recreation.
We urge the Washington legislature to reject HB 1018.
Decision Makers
- kayakers