October 2006 Legislative Overview
Recreational Boaters of California
By Doug Hipsley, SCYC PICYA Delegate & Past President of RBOC
A Tradition of Protecting Boating Interests
Recreational Boaters of California (RBOC) is a non-profit governmental advocacy organization that works to protect and enhance the interests of the state’s recreational boaters before the legislative and executive branches of state and local governments, as well as regulatory agencies.
RBOC was formed as a statewide organization in 1968, and from that date forward has continued its commitment to promoting the enjoyment, protection, and responsible use of our waterways.
Lobbying State & Local Governments
RBOC supports bills and regulations that would enhance recreational boating, and opposes bills and regulations that would have a detrimental impact on the California recreational boating community.
The organization’s lobbing efforts include testimony in public hearings, meeting with elected and appointed officials, preparation of amendments to bills, as well as the sponsorship of pro-active legislation to benefit the recreational boater. The law firm of Desmond & Desmond has provided RBOC with professional legislative advocacy and association management since 1971. Jerry Desmond and Jerry Jr. lobby for recreational boaters throughout California.
RBOC Financial Support
RBOC receives its support from boating families who are members of 190 boating and sailing clubs throughout California, and from Boat Owners Association of the United States (BoatUS.). Voluntary contributions are made to RBOC when SCYC members pay their annual dues. This non-deductible contribution is a small price to pay for the protection from adverse laws and regulations that impact recreational boaters, or the redirection of boater generated tax dollars to non-recreational boating uses.
The yearly budget is approximately $100K. All Directors volunteer their time; extraordinary travel expenses may be reimbursed. About 90% cover legislative advocacy and lobbying fees. The remaining 10% cover administration costs.
For more information, please refer to:
www.rboc.org
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