Next message: Philip Lange: "Re: [world-cruising] Re: Proposed Course Of Action By Homeland Security"
On 6/19/07, Dave J <> wrote:
>
> Well as I read the article all they're asking is that boat operators:
> 1. pass some kind of proficiency test (like we already do to hold a
> driver's license), and
> 2. carry a government issued ID (like we do when driving a car).
>
> No BIG DEAL. It's already that way in some states as well as in our
> neighbor to the North, Canada.
>
> I personally don't see what the problem here is.
For probably the past fifty years, there have been attempts to get federal
licensing of boat operators. Every time, it's been beaten back. Instead,
the Coast Guard has worked through the various states, setting up and
supporting boating safety programs, including state licensing. Most of the
licensing laws have excluded everyone over a certain age, and are required
only for new operators. The idea is that over time, everyone will
eventually be licensed, or at least have taken some form of boating safety
course. As with everything else, there will be some different requirements
among the states.
So the "proficiency test" and the licensing requirements are already in
place. The new proposal takes these functions away from the states and puts
them into the Department of Homeland Security. As far as I can see, that
accomplishes exactly nothing. I am no more secure under a federal licensing
program than I am under a state program.
Under federal law, the Coast Guard already has the right to board any US
Flagged boat anywhere in the world at any time. How does a federal
proficiency test and license improve our security over that existing law?
Sometimes, it's important to keep the camel's nose out of the tent. Just
because someone brings up the "terrorism" argument doesn't mean he has a
good idea.
--
Best,
Bryan Genez
"Capella" V40-158
New Bern, NC
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