July 24, 2008 - Alexandria, Va. ??? The American Sportfishing Association applauds the bi-partisan actions of the House and Senate with their passage of S. 2766, the Clean Boating Act of 2008. The act will permanently restore a long-standing exemption for the nation's 18 million recreational boats from permitting requirements under the Clean Water Act. The legislation now goes to the White House for the President's signature.

Sens. Bill Nelson (D-FL) and Barbara Boxer (D-CA) and Representatives Jim Oberstar (D-MN), Steve LaTourette (R-OH), Candice Miller (R-MI) and Gene Taylor (D-MS) lead the Congressional action which permanently reverses a September 2006 court decision which would have required recreational boaters to obtain a federal or state permit in order to operate their boats, the same as commercial vessels. Without the swift action of Congress, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) would have had to implement permit regulations for all recreational boats in the country by October 1, 2008.

"This is a significant victory for recreational boaters and anglers," said ASA Vice President Gordon Robertson. "Our thanks and congratulations go to the National Marine Manufacturers Association for leading the charge to see that this Act was passed. It just goes to show what can be done when the entire boating and angling community comes together for a common purpose."

Robertson further said, "We urge the President to validate the bi-partisan action of Congress by swiftly approving this bill."