OLYMPIA – Senate Bill 6120 that cleared the Senate today, is evidence that citizen engagement can lead to legislative action.
Last spring, Joe Grez, the president of PropEle Electric Boat Motors and a resident of the 5th Legislative District, approached Sen Mark Mullet, D-Issaquah, with concerns about the hassles his customers faced when trying to use his product – electric boat paddles.
After their meeting, Mullet sprang into action and filed legislation.
SB 6120 would allow people to use low-power, electric boat motors — electric paddles — on small vessels like kayaks and row boats without having to register their vessels with the Department of Licensing.
“I hear from too many people that government is unresponsive,” said Mullet. “But I want people in in my community to know that if they have a good idea, I’ll listen and we’ll work together on a solution.”
Grez’s company makes electric boat paddles so that people who are no longer physically capable of rowing or kayaking can continue to participate in the boating activities they enjoy.
“From the moment I called his office, Sen. Mullet’s team recognized the needs of both small boaters and small business owners,” said Grez. “They truly represent and advocate for the citizens and businesses in their district.”
SB 6120 was passed with a unanimous vote. It now heads to the House for further consideration.
