Tampa Bay Boating Law 2025 (Lucy’s Law): New BUI & Felony Rules

New Tampa Boating Law: How Lucy’s Law Changes the Rules for Pinellas and Hillsborough Boaters in 2025

Starting July 1, 2025, a sweeping new Florida boating law, known as “Lucy’s Law,” will permanently alter the landscape for boaters across Tampa Bay. Passed in May 2025 in response to a tragic boating death, this law introduces severe penalties for common marine incidents. Consequently, a casual day on the water can now have life-changing legal consequences.

If you operate any vessel in Tampa, St. Petersburg, Clearwater, or anywhere on the Intracoastal Waterway, you must understand these changes. This isn’t just another regulation; it’s a complete overhaul of boater responsibility that local law enforcement will be enforcing aggressively.

What is Lucy’s Law? A Guide for Tampa Bay Boaters

Lucy’s Law, officially CS/CS/CS/HB 289, raises the stakes for everything from boating under the influence BUI to leaving the scene of an accident. Here’s a clear breakdown of what every local boater, from the weekend enthusiast at Fort De Soto to the vessel rental operator at John’s Pass, needs to know.

1. Leaving a Boating Accident is Now a Major Felony

Previously, the consequences for leaving the scene of a boating accident were less severe. Under Lucy’s Law, this has changed dramatically. Failing to stop, provide your information, and render aid after a boating accident is now a felony.

The penalties escalate based on the severity of the incident:

• Accident with Injury: A third-degree felony.
• Accident with Serious Bodily Injury: A second-degree felony.
• Accident with a Fatality: A first-degree felony. Furthermore, if a captain willfully leaves the scene of a fatal crash, they face a mandatory minimum of 4 years in prison.

This is a critical update for boaters in high-traffic zones like the Courtney Campbell Causeway, Davis Islands, or near Beer Can Island.

2. BUI Manslaughter Penalties Mirror DUI Law

Lucy’s Law directly aligns penalties for Boating Under the Influence BUI with those for driving under the influence DUI. This is a significant shift aimed at reducing alcohol-related tragedies on crowded waters like Lake Tarpon and Hillsborough Bay.

Specifically, an operator involved in a fatal boating accident while impaired faces:

• BUI Manslaughter: A second-degree felony.
• Leaving the Scene of a Fatal BUI: A first-degree felony with mandatory prison time.

Because of this change, law enforcement in both Hillsborough and Pinellas counties will treat BUI incidents with the same gravity as DUIs on the road.

3. “Reckless Operation” Carries Felony Consequences

What might have been considered a careless joyride in the past now carries much heavier penalties. Reckless or careless operation of a vessel, such as operating at high speeds near swimmers or crowded sandbars, is now a more serious offense.

• Reckless Operation No Injury: A first-degree misdemeanor.
• Reckless Operation Causing Serious Bodily Harm: A third-degree felony.

This provision gives authorities more power to crack down on dangerous behavior near popular spots like Clearwater Pass and the Gandy Bridge.

4. It is Now a Crime to File a False Boating Accident Report

Under the new statute, it is illegal to knowingly provide false information, written or oral, following a boating accident. This is classified as a second-degree misdemeanor. This law targets anyone tempted to misstate the facts to avoid liability, even in a minor collision.

5. Mandatory Fines and Safety Courses for Violators

The new law also imposes stricter educational requirements and fines. Repeat offenders or anyone involved in a “reportable” boating accident must:

• Pay a 500 dollar fine, with the funds directed to marine law enforcement agencies.
• Successfully complete a state-approved boating safety course.
• File proof of course completion before being legally allowed to operate a vessel again.

This directly impacts recreational boaters and rental customers throughout the Tampa Bay area.

How Lucy’s Law Impacts Boaters in Hillsborough and Pinellas

As one of Florida’s busiest boating regions, Tampa Bay will be a focal point for the enforcement of Lucy’s Law. From Apollo Beach to Indian Rocks Beach, expect to see a more aggressive stance from the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office, and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission FWC.

This means you can anticipate:

• More Felony Arrests: Accidents that once might have resulted in misdemeanors or civil liability will now trigger felony charges.
• Harsher BUI Penalties: There will be less leniency for boaters found operating while impaired.
• Increased Scrutiny on Rentals: The law expands the definition of a “livery,” placing more responsibility on anyone renting out a vessel, even informally.

If you are involved in a marine incident, it is critical to consult a lawyer before making any statements. An experienced criminal defense attorney can secure evidence like GPS data, witness accounts, and medical records to protect your rights, often before formal charges are even filed.

Facing a BUI or Boating Charge in Tampa? Your Freedom is on the Line.

Under Lucy’s Law, there is no such thing as a minor boating incident anymore. You could be facing felony charges, mandatory prison time, and the loss of your freedom and reputation over a mistake on the water. Do not talk to law enforcement or wait for charges to be filed. The single most important step you can take right now is to secure an experienced BUI and boating defense lawyer.

The Brancato Law Firm is your first line of defense. With over 25 years of felony trial experience right here in Tampa Bay, we know how to challenge evidence, negotiate with prosecutors, and build a powerful defense designed to protect your future.

Don’t Risk a Felony Conviction. Call Us Immediately for a Confidential Strategy Session.

Your defense starts with one phone call. We will immediately review the details of your case and outline the critical next steps to protect you. We serve all of Tampa Bay from our office in historic Ybor City.

Call Now: 813-727-7159

Legal Services: Felony Defense for BUI and Boating Accidents

Service Areas: Tampa, St. Petersburg, Clearwater, Hillsborough County, and Pinellas County

The Brancato Law Firm, P.A. – Tampa’s Authority in Boating Crime Defense