“Lucy’s Law” Set to Revolutionize Boating Safety in Florida—Governor’s Signature is the Final Step!

Florida lawmakers have passed Lucy’s Law, a landmark boating safety bill that now heads to Governor Ron DeSantis’ desk for final approval. Named in memory of 17-year-old Luciana “Lucy” Fernandez, who tragically lost her life in a 2022 boating accident near Boca Chita Key, the bill aims to strengthen boating safety regulations and prevent similar tragedies in the future. Once signed into law, Lucy’s Law will take effect on July 1, 2025, and represent a significant move to improve safety on Florida’s waterways.

Lucy’s death was a heartbreaking event that highlighted serious deficiencies in Florida’s boating laws. She was struck by a speeding vessel while spending a day on the water with friends. The operator of the second boat fled the scene, leaving Lucy with fatal injuries. The incident led Lucy’s parents, Melissa and Andy Fernandez, to become vocal advocates for stronger regulations to hold reckless boaters accountable. Lucy’s Law aims to ensure that no other family experiences the same pain.

The bill passed through both the Florida House and Senate with overwhelming bipartisan support after some last-minute debates over the language and certain provisions. It was approved with near-unanimous votes in both chambers, reflecting the widespread consensus among lawmakers on the need for stronger boating regulations in Florida.

“Today, we will now end our 60 days with the same bill that we started session with,” said House Speaker Rep. Danny Perez told NBC Miami. His statement underscored the perseverance and commitment of lawmakers to push the bill through despite the challenges. The legislation has been closely followed by the Fernandez family, who have worked tirelessly to ensure their daughter’s memory leads to lasting change.

Lucy’s Law includes several key provisions aimed at reducing the number of boating accidents in Florida. One of the bill’s most significant measures is the stricter penalties for reckless boating, particularly those who leave the scene of an accident. Under the new law, anyone found guilty of leaving the scene of an accident that results in injury or death will face felony charges. The law introduces a third-degree felony charge for leaving the scene of an accident involving minor injuries, and a first-degree felony for accidents that result in fatalities.

The bill also addresses boater education requirements, mandating that all boat operators who have lived in Florida for less than five years complete a mandatory boating safety education course. The course will cover topics such as navigation, safety signs, and emergency procedures. These education requirements are designed to increase awareness and ensure that new residents have the proper knowledge to operate a vessel safely.

Although Lucy’s Law has received broad support, the final version of the bill was nearly derailed by disagreements over the boater education provisions. Initially, there was strong debate regarding the scope of the education requirements, with some lawmakers concerned about the impact on experienced boaters. However, after some negotiation, the final bill was able to pass with a compromise that ensured the bill remained strong.

“We’re so happy with how the bill turned out. Even though certain provisions were removed, we believe it’s really strong,” said Lucy’s mother, Melissa Fernandez told NBC Miami. Despite the removal of some aspects of the bill, she and her husband, Andy, expressed their satisfaction with the bill’s final form, which they believe will help prevent future tragedies.

In addition to tougher penalties and the new education requirements, Lucy’s Law expands the scope of accountability. Not only will boat operators be held responsible for their actions, but passengers and other individuals involved in an accident will also be held liable if their actions contribute to the incident. This broader accountability is designed to ensure that everyone involved in a boating accident shares the responsibility for safety on the water.

With over 1 million registered boats in Florida, the state is one of the most popular boating destinations in the United States. However, this popularity also leads to an increased risk of accidents. By implementing stronger penalties and education requirements, Lucy’s Law seeks to reduce the number of boating accidents and fatalities. The law is seen as a necessary step in ensuring the safety of Florida’s waterways, particularly as tourism continues to bring more boaters to the state.

Senator Jason Pizzo, a co-sponsor of the bill, stressed the critical role the legislation plays in maintaining the safety of Florida’s waterways. He noted that while Florida is home to some of the nation’s most beautiful and frequently visited waterways, it is essential to ensure that people use them responsibly. He believes Lucy’s Law will help prevent future accidents by holding negligent boaters accountable and providing education to those navigating Florida’s waters.

For the Fernandez family, the passage of Lucy’s Law is both a bittersweet triumph and a way to honor their daughter. While they cannot bring Lucy back, they take solace in knowing their efforts will prevent other families from facing the same heartbreak. They hope that no other family experiences the same pain, but they believe this law will save lives and make a difference for others who enjoy Florida’s waters.

With Lucy’s Law now headed to Governor DeSantis’ desk, it is expected to be signed into law, bringing about a new era of boating safety in Florida. The bill will take effect on July 1, 2025, and boaters in the state will be required to comply with the new education requirements and face tougher penalties for reckless behavior. This law will not only honor Lucy’s legacy but also ensure that future boaters are better educated and more accountable for their actions on Florida’s waters.

By signing Lucy’s Law, Governor DeSantis will be helping to create a safer environment for everyone who enjoys the state’s waterways. This law represents a significant step forward in making boating safer, preventing accidents, and ensuring that tragedies like Lucy’s are less likely to occur. The Fernandez family’s determination to change the law has brought meaningful reform to Florida, and it is a testament to their love for their daughter and their desire to protect others.