Alabama Sends Boat-Inspection Bill to Governor

The Alabama Legislature on Thursday approved House Bill 254 (HB254), a measure that would prohibit law enforcement officers from stopping or boarding watercraft solely to conduct safety or marine sanitation equipment inspections. The bill now goes to Gov. Kay Ivey for her consideration and signature.

Sponsored by Representative Shane Stringer (R-Citronelle), HB 254 drew bipartisan support as it moved through both chambers of the legislature during the 2026 Regular Session. It passed the Alabama House with an overwhelming majority and was later approved by the Senate before being enrolled and sent to the Governor.

The bill’s core provision prohibits law enforcement from stopping or boarding a “vessel” — as defined under State code — for the sole purpose of performing safety or sanitation equipment inspections. Supporters said this aligns boaters’ rights on the State’s waterways with protections motorists enjoy on roadways.

Stringer, a career law enforcement officer, said the intent behind the legislation is to protect boaters’ constitutional rights against random inspections without probable cause. He pointed to the need for clear and consistent standards for officers in the field.

The bill’s supporters also noted that routine stops for safety or sanitation checks can burden recreational boaters and waterway users unnecessarily. Senator Chris Elliott (R-Josephine), who carried the measure in the Senate, said families enjoying Alabama’s lakes and rivers shouldn’t face delays without reasonable cause.

Once enacted, the measure will take effect on June 1, 2026, providing a uniform standard for law enforcement interactions with vessels and their operators.