Peter Schorsch
Lucy’s Law (HB 289) is on Special Order Calendar in the House Wednesday. And on the eve of the vote, Lucy’s parents share their story in a heart-wrenching video.
“Lucy was a ray of light, just like her name,” said Meli Fernandez. “She was known for her wisdom. She was kind. She was so self-disciplined. She was an amazing friend, incredible daughter, sister, granddaughter.”
Andy and Meli Fernandez suffered an unimaginable loss Labor Day Weekend in 2022, when their daughter Lucy was killed in a tragic boating accident. Now, the Fernandez family works to save the lives of others by advocating for greater safety on the water.
“For us, this tragedy has shaken us to our core because boating was our way of life, is our way of life, still,” Meli explains.
“What we are aiming to do through Lucy’s Law is to make the water and boating a safer environment,” Andy said.
HB 289, sponsored by Reps. Vanessa Oliver and Vicki Lopez, introduces new requirements for boating safety education among boat operators who are new to Florida or visiting the state. The bill passed every committee with overwhelming support.
“There is a direct correlation between a lack of preparedness, a lack of education and a lack of experience on the water, and these tragic boating accidents,” Meli said. “Florida leads the nation in registered vessels. It also leads the nation in reportable accidents and fatalities.”
According to Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, there are on average 65 boating fatalities per year. In 2023 alone, there were 408 injuries and 59 deaths tied to boating. 83% of those responsible for fatalities had no boater education.
