HARRISBURG – Sen. Devlin Robinson (R-37) today praised the signing of legislation authored by Rep. Anita Kulik that gives state and local authorities the tools to deal with abandoned and derelict boats on Pennsylvania waterways. Robinson, who sponsored the Senate companion bill, called the new law a “commonsense solution to a longstanding safety and environmental concern.”
“I’m proud to have worked alongside Rep. Kulik to move this legislation forward and thrilled to see it officially signed into law,” Robinson said. “From the Allegheny to the Ohio, our rivers are essential to the life and identity of western Pennsylvania. When boats are abandoned or left to decay, they not only pose serious navigational hazards but also pollute our waters and burden local governments.”
The legislation clearly defines what constitutes an abandoned, at-risk, or derelict vessel and allows the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission, as well as local municipalities, to act when such boats are found. The law establishes a process for tagging vessels, notifying owners and removing boats that go unclaimed. It also allows for recovery of removal and storage costs, easing the financial strain on communities that have long struggled with these eyesores and safety risks.
“This is a win for public safety, for the environment and responsible boaters,” Robinson said. “I commend Rep. Kulik for her leadership in advancing this important reform, and I was glad to champion it in the Senate. This is exactly the kind of bipartisan, good-governance legislation Pennsylvanians expect from their elected officials.”
“I am grateful for the efforts of Sen. Robinson in helping push this bill through to the governor’s desk,” said Kulik. “In representing many of the same areas, we have come to work together well in a true bipartisan way. I am proud that the legislation came out of Allegheny County.”
Robinson, who represents parts of Allegheny County, said he looks forward to seeing the law implemented and continuing to work with colleagues on both sides of the aisle to address challenges facing Pennsylvania’s communities and waterways.
CONTACT: Allison Dutrey