How BTAT Serves Dealers

BTAT is instrumental in passing and defeating legislation:

  • Passed the boat dealer/manufacturer law applicable to Texas
  • Passed the Uniform Speed Limit Bill for all boats
  • Passed an equalized state sales tax for all boats, including used boats
  • Passed a local option property tax exemption on all boats
  • Passed a fair Boating While Intoxicated statute for Texas Passed a fair Boating While Intoxicated statute for Texas
  • Passed the Texas Water Safety Act of 1997, which enhances boating safety and directs boating dollars into boat programs
  • Defeated Mandatory Kill Switch Bill on all power boats
  • Defeated shallow water bay boating ban legislation
  • Defeated mandatory boat operator licensing and local boating ban authority
  • Carefully monitors recreational boat fees or tax increases

BTAT promotes business networking and in-house promotions:

  • Developed pilot Boater Education classes for utilization at consumer shows
  • Established the statewide Lakeshore Cleanup program, which provides opportunities for dealership participation and promotion in their local area
  • Works with Governor’s office and the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department to promote Safe Boating Week
  • Provides membership with individualized safe boating promotion ideas for use during Safe Boating Week
  • Provides Texas boating industry news and networking through the Texas Boating Tide, Board meetings and annual membership meetings
  • Promotes Texas boating to the general public through its relationship with the media and other public and private sources
  • Enhances communication of the industry through the printing and distribution of its membership directory
  • Maintains a close working relationship with the Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission and department staff to ensure the concerns of the recreational boating industry and public are heard
  • Provides a variety of cost-saving endorsed membership services
  • Guarantees that all members can gain input to association policies through its statewide Board of Directors
  • Provides Texas boating industry news and promotes Texas boating to the general public through its website