Paddlers May Get Hit in Pocket

Wow! A new source of tax revenue! Kayakers have been a burden on the state for too long. The Non-motorized Vessel Subcommittee of the Florida Boating Council is pushing for a $5 to $20 fee on the estimated 360,000 motor-free boats in Florida. That could generate $800,000 for the state and qualify the state for federal grants according to one Florida official.

Kayaks, canoes, and johnboats use Florida waters. They should pay for the services of law enforcement. Speeding canoes violate no wake zones and tie up Marine Patrol officers. Sin taxes on alcohol, tobacco and fancy jewelry are well established taxes. Having fun paddling should be taxed as well. Short kayaks are more fun than long kayaks, so double the tax on them. (Airboats and Wave Runners are even more fun, so they should have taxes doubled on them.)

On the other hand—paddlers contribute very little carbon dioxide to the global warming problem. There are no reported kayaking deaths versus 81 motorized vessel deaths according to the Gainesville Sun. The kayakers aren't calling for emergency help.

Historically there have been taxes on everything from salt to the number of doors in a house. If non-motorized boats are a burden on the state, what about hikers? They wear out the trails. Perhaps we need a special tax on shoes. Hiking boots with Vibram soles should pay double. A special tax on off-road vehicles might fly, even though they don't always use the trails.

If you think the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission should table any discussion of fees on non-motorized vessels, send comments to:

Div. of Law Enforcement
Boating and Waterways Section
Boating Advisory Council
620 S. Meridian Street, Room 235
Tallahassee, FL 32399-1600
Fax number: (850) 488-9284