Ryan Nicol
House lawmakers have unanimously approved legislation to crack down on dangerous boating stemming from a tragedy in South Florida.
The legislation (HB 289) is being dubbed “Lucy’s Law,” named after 17-year-old Luciana Fernandez, who died during a September 2022 boat crash that left other passengers injured, including 18-year-old Katerina Puig, who is now permanently disabled.
George Pino is facing homicide charges after operating a boat, where Fernandez, Puig and others were on board, when it violently struck a channel marker. Pino refused a Breathalyzer at the time.
With Lucy’s parents, Melissa and Andy Fernandez, Lucy’s parents, in attendance, House lawmakers voted 112-0 to approve the measure Wednesday. Rep. Vanessa Oliver, a Port Charlotte Republican, sponsored the legislation.
Republican Rep. Vicki Lopez also served as a prime co-sponsor. Republican Sen. Jonathan Martin’s companion bill (SB 628) is awaiting a final hearing in the Senate Fiscal Policy Committee.
The legislation would require boat operators who have not been Florida residents for at least five years to get a boater safety card or equivalent.
The bill also ups the penalties for certain boating accidents. Per the legislation, if someone leaves the scene of an accident where someone is hurt, but it’s not a serious bodily injury, prosecutors would be authorized to charge the person with a third-degree felony. In the event of a serious bodily injury, the allowable penalty would increase to a second-degree felony, up from a third-degree felony. Such accidents involving death would be punishable as first-degree felonies.
The House bill would also establish a mandatory minimum of four years in prison for someone involved in a deadly crash who leaves the scene or fails to notify law enforcement.
Fighting back tears during her close, Oliver thanked Lucy’s parents for their work stumping for the bill.
“I’d like to thank them for their strength, courage and determination. They’ve turned the unimaginable pain of losing their precious daughter into purpose by advocating for greater safety on the waters that we all love.”
Following the successful vote, House lawmakers gave Melissa and Andy Fernandez a standing ovation.
One comment
FLPatriot
March 27, 2025 at 7:24 am
But didn’t they handcuff Florida Wildlife from stopping boats to check for impairment? Doesn’t seem like they really want to stop these things from happening on the water.