New boating law makes BUI, DUI penalties the same

Beginning on July 1, there will be no difference between Boating Under the Influence and Driving Under the Influence in Tennessee. This new law will authorize courts to use the same sentencing for BUI cases as DUI cases. It will also allow law enforcement to obtain search warrants to perform blood or breath tests should an arrested person refuse.

“Boating Under the Influence is now Driving Under the Influence. They are streamlined in the court system in the way that they are prosecuted and handled,” said Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) spokesperson Matt Cameron.

Although BUI penalties will change, the law will not affect the way authorities handle these situations.