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Florida finally getting smart

Discussion in 'General Yachting Discussion' started by JWY, May 22, 2009.

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  1. JWY, May 22, 2009
    #1
    JWY

    JWY Senior Member

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    From Soundings Trade Only:
    " Florida Gov. Charlie Crist signed into law several bills to strengthen his state's economy, including one that will help the marine industry.

    House Bill 7031 allows non-residents who purchase a boat in Florida, or bring a boat into Florida for repair or alteration, to remain in the state 180 days before becoming liable for the sales and use tax.

    Currently, the tax applies after 90 days.

    Allowing boat owners and their guests to remain in Florida waters will stimulate Florida's marine industry, as well as stimulate businesses that support the marine industry, according to state officials.

    "Today, we are helping reignite Florida's economy through legislation that empowers businesses and creates new opportunities for families to be successful in their communities and their careers," Crist said in a statement."
  2. Loren Schweizer, May 22, 2009
    #2
    Loren Schweizer

    Loren Schweizer YF Associate Writer

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    This has to be particularly good news for thems who purchase slow boats which need all the time they can muster to depart State waters. :D

    Seriously, this is a win-win for everybody.
  3. Ken Bracewell, May 22, 2009
    #3
    Ken Bracewell

    Ken Bracewell Senior Member

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    What happened to the cap on state tax? I'd rather just pay that and stay in FL for as long as we want to.
  4. Loren Schweizer, May 22, 2009
    #4
    Loren Schweizer

    Loren Schweizer YF Associate Writer

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    Don't think that's going to happen. As much as a "Better getting a small piece of something rather than no piece of anything" tax would help the economy not lose dollars to offshore registry, the pols could not be seen giving the "rich" yachties a "tax break" during our current economic malaise with cuts in services already taking place and, maybe, tax increases yet to come.

    It took a helluva long time to just enact "10 to 90"--the precursor of what Judy posted here--with long and patient explanations as to how the State's coffers would benefit.
  5. Pascal, May 22, 2009
    #5
    Pascal

    Pascal Senior Member

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    well it's currently 184 days per year and 90 consecutive days for visiting boats, so this really helps boat buyers (getting the boat ready and upgraded/repaired before leaving). I guess it means they are lifting the 90 consecutive days?
  6. scott49, May 22, 2009
    #6
    scott49

    scott49 Senior Member

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    I purchased my boat recently and knew I only had the 90 days, so it is up at Thunderbolt Ga. getting alot of work done. Wanted to do the work in Florida. Sorry could not give Florida the work or the tax money. Would of stayed in Florida with 180 days.

    Pascal wrote
    (I guess it means they are lifting the 90 consecutive days?)

    Does anyone know if this will be true?
  7. Loren Schweizer, May 23, 2009
    #7
    Loren Schweizer

    Loren Schweizer YF Associate Writer

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    Even under the old law, Scott, there was a 'Safe Harbor' clause that allowed you to remain in Fla waters beyond 90 days provided you were in a recognized yard getting work done to your boat, which was allowed to go for seatrials to test electronics & other repairs.
    No personal use by owner was a stipulation, however.