WHEREAS, Recreational boating is a beloved activity enjoyed by many in Washington; and
     WHEREAS, Washington has the fourth highest boater accident rate in the nation, and 87 percent of the operators involved in those accidents had not received any sort of boater safety training; and
     WHEREAS, Through implementation in 36 other states, boater safety education has been proven to reduce serious accidents; and
     WHEREAS, Boating safety education programs contribute to the reduction of accidents and increase the enjoyment of boating by all operators of all recreational vessels on Washington's waters; and
     WHEREAS, Boater safety education in Washington would be phased in so that boaters are required to obtain a boater education card by January 1, 2016; and
     WHEREAS, The boater safety education programs include training on preventing the spread of aquatic invasive species; and
     WHEREAS, The programs set minimum standards for boating safety accomplishment, course instruction, examination, and accreditation that are consistent with United States Coast Guard regulations; and
     WHEREAS, Boater safety programs encourage coordination with volunteer and private sector efforts to enhance boating safety and education for operators of nonmotorized vessels; and
     WHEREAS, Successful implementation of boater safety education will make the waters of Washington more enjoyable for boaters, swimmers, and fishermen;
     NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Washington State Senate recognize the importance of promoting boater safety for the protection of all Washington citizens; and
     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution be immediately transmitted by the Secretary of the Senate to the United States Power Squadrons.