Watercraft: registration; invasive species prevention and remediation watercraft decals; provide for. Amends sec. 80124a of 1994 PA 451 (MCL 324.80124a).
Key claim: HB5308 would amend Michigan watercraft registration law to provide for invasive species prevention and remediation watercraft decals.
Abstract
(HB5308 · 103rd Legislature) Watercraft: registration; invasive species prevention and remediation watercraft decals; provide for. Amends sec. 80124a of 1994 PA 451 (MCL 324.80124a). Sponsor: Rep. Ken Borton ® + 11 co-sponsors In committee: S Natural Resources And Agriculture Latest vote: House Third Reading: Given Immediate Effect Roll Call #129 — 105-1 (passed, 2026-04-29) Latest action (2026-05-07): Referred To Committee On Natural Resources And Agriculture
Why this matters
Watercraft are a primary vector for aquatic invasive species spread between Michigan’s inland lakes and Great Lakes waters, and a dedicated decal program could create a visible compliance touchpoint and potentially a funding stream tied to registration. For boat owners, this signals a likely addition to registration requirements or fees; for the state, it formalizes invasive species prevention within the existing watercraft registration framework.