May 7, 2024

Rep. Lanoue’s Beach Pond Boating Law Bill Passes in the House of Representatives

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Q Endorsement bill garners additional support and is passed by the Senate

HARTFORD – On Monday evening at the State Capitol, the House and Senate acted on two pieces of legislation that are key components of State Representative Brian Lanoue’s (R-45) legislative priorities for the 2024 session.

The House of Representatives passed H.B. No. 5350, An Act Concerning the Enforcement of Boating Laws on Bodies of Water Near the Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and New York Borders. If passed by the Senate prior to midnight Wednesday, it would be the next step to enabling dual enforcement for Connecticut and Rhode Island law enforcement to focus on safety measures allowing them to pursue and arrest violators into the other state’s waters on Beach Pond. For this law to be enforceable however, the Rhode Island State Legislature will need to take similar action. This proposed legislation was crafted after several safety concerns have been raised by residents concerning the use of the pond in the warmer weather months.

“I am ecstatic that House leadership saw the importance of this bill and decided to take action on it in the final days of this year’s session,” said Rep. Lanoue. “My constituents who live on Beach Pond brought this concern to my attention, and I haven’t stopped advocating for this bill over the last several years. I wasn’t alone in this effort, State Senator Heather Somers, Voluntown First Selectman Tracey Hanson, and all the residents on the pond that all had a hand in finally getting this bill through the House. A special thank you to Chair Representative Joe Gresko and Ranking Member Representative Pat Callahan, of the Environment Committee for their support during this process.”

Meanwhile in the Senate, H.B. No. 5404, An Act Concerning Military Training and Experience and the Driver’s License Endorsement to Operate Fire Apparatus, passed unanimously, days after garnering unanimous support in the House last Wednesday. The legislation will help streamline the bureaucracy on certifications for active-duty military personnel and fire departments regarding Q license endorsements for apparatus operation by granting reciprocity with the proper military certifications

“Today is a good day for veterans and fire departments across our state,” added Rep. Lanoue. “To have worked locally on a bill that has moved through two legislative committees and both chambers during this short session that will benefit the people of our state is very rewarding. To bring this proposal to Hartford and see the overwhelming support it received through a bi-partisan effort underscores the importance of this bill. I want to thank our veterans and firefighters for everything they do to protect us – they are the reason this legislation got passed.”

The bill will now await being signed into law by Governor Lamont.