Weekly 5: EPA submits 2017 RFS rule to White House OMB for review

The BI Weekly 5 is a collection of tips, news and data affecting the boating industry this week. Be sure to look for the BI Weekly 5 every Monday on BoatingIndustry.com.

1. EPA submits 2017 RFS rule to White House OMB for review

The Environmental Protection Agency has submitted its proposed rule for the 2017 renewable fuel standard (RFS) to the White House Office of Management and Budget, a step before the proposed rule is published in the Federal Register and opened for public comment.

The proposed rule would set the 2017 renewable volume obligations (RVOs) for renewable fuel, such as ethanol. The EPA had previously issued the RVOs for 2014, 2015 and 2016 in late 2015.

2. Florida gov signs new boat safety bill

Florida Boaters who carry an emergency locator device on board won’t have to shell out as much for registration under a new law signed by Gov. Rick Scott.

3. U.S outboard shipments up 5 percent through March

U.S. outboard engine wholesale shipments were up 5 percent YOY through March on a rolling 12-month basis, for NMMA’s control group of manufacturers (representing 95% of the market), the association reported.

4. Maryland plans stepped-up safety patrols

After a jump in boating accidents in 2015, Maryland Natural Resources Police will be stepping up enforcement and education efforts this year, the agency said.

The patrols will focus on ensuring every boat has the required safety equipment, including life jackets, flares and fire extinguishers.

5. ‘Boaty McBoatface’ wins NERC boat contest

England’s Natural Environment Research Council (NERC) asked the public for name suggestions for their new $300 million state-of-the-art polar research vessel — and out of the 7,000 name submitted, the winner ended up being RRS Boaty McBoatface.

No word yet on whether or not NERC will go with the name or another one.

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