Wakeboats could be sunk under proposed Vermont legislation

A US bill that would ban wakeboats and effectively ban wake-surfing in parts of Vermont will be vigorously opposed by the Watersports Industry Associate (WIA) and the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA).

The measure, introduced last week in the Vermont State Senate, would prohibit boat “plowing”, in which a bow rides high in the water while the boat remains off plane. The effect creates a wake suitable for traditional surfing behind the vessel.

Vermont Senate Bill 69 would also require the development of regulations to ban wakeboats from specific public waterways, taking into consideration existing fishing, boating and “predominant use” of adjacent lands, as well as scenic beauty.

The regulations, which would exclude Lake Huron and Lake Memphremagog, are believed to be the first proposal in the US for a statewide ban on ballasted boats.

The two industry associations are making blockage of the bill a top priority.