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Senator Kleinpeter says vessel-stop bill balances law enforcement and recreational boating rights; measure passes
Summary
The Senate passed SB 243, which requires reasonable suspicion for vessel stops and boardings. Sponsor Sen. Caleb Kleinpeter framed the bill as supporting law enforcement while protecting recreational boaters from harassment.
The Louisiana Senate approved SB 243, a bill that sets a reasonable-suspicion standard for stops and boardings of recreational vessels, after sponsor Sen. Caleb Kleinpeter argued the measure protects both law enforcement authority and citizens’ rights.
Senator Caleb Kleinpeter, the bill sponsor, told the chamber the measure "has the law enforcement or wildlife and fisheries has to have reasonable suspicion to be able to stop you and board your vessel." He added, "I'm a huge supporter of law enforcement, but I also believe in having the right to be able to get on a boat and ride it without being harassed." The Senate conducted a roll-call vote with the secretary announcing 31 yays and 0 nays; the bill was declared passed.
The bill was presented on third reading and received limited floor discussion beyond the sponsor’s remarks. The clerk recorded the final tally and the presiding officer ordered the bill passed; no amendments were recorded on the floor during that call.
SB 243 will now proceed according to the Legislature’s process for engrossment and enrollment before transmission to the appropriate administrative authorities for implementation. The Senate scheduled follow-up and reconvened calendar items for the next legislative day.
