Looking Ahead to a Busy State Legislative Year: Key Policy Priorities for Recreational Boat Builders

As state legislatures prepare to convene in the new year, 2026 is shaping up to be a busy and consequential session for the recreational boating industry. Across the country, policymakers are expected to take up a wide range of proposals that will directly affect boat builders, marine businesses, and the millions of Americans who enjoy time on the water. From access to public waterways to environmental and manufacturing regulations, decisions made at the state level will play a critical role in shaping the industry's future.

Later today, NMMA will host a member-only webinar to provide a focused outlook on the key policy priorities expected to dominate statehouses in the months ahead. Topics will include wakesurfing, where continued state-level activity underscores the importance of clear, consistent, and commonsense rules that protect access while supporting a growing segment of recreational boating. The discussion will also address PFAS-related proposals, as states consider a range of approaches that could carry significant implications for marine manufacturing, supply chains, and product compliance.

In addition, the webinar will highlight broader access and recreation infrastructure issues that are essential to a strong boating economy, including sustained investment in boat ramps, marinas, and waterways. Together, these policy areas reflect the industry's shared priorities: preserving boater access to public waters, supporting innovation and responsible manufacturing, and ensuring the infrastructure needed to keep boating safe, accessible, and thriving in communities nationwide.

NMMA members interested in attending today's webinar can register via the link sent in yesterday's email from [email protected]. <_o3a_p>