Russia is weighing tighter penalties for operating small watercraft such as motorboats, jet skis, and other vessels without a license and without alcohol involvement. A draft law under consideration by the Ministry of Emergency Situations is being prepared for submission to the State Duma in the autumn, according to officials familiar with the process. The measure would accompany the existing draft No. 326718-8 that the State Duma Committee on Security and Anti-Corruption proposed for its first reading on May 17.
Officials say that once the basic legal framework is enacted, a satellite bill will follow. A representative noted that current fines have not been effective in deterring violations, signaling that the new package aims to impose stricter consequences for unsafe boating and alcohol impairment on the water. The hope is that the enhanced penalties will create a stronger disincentive for risky behavior and better protect lives on rivers, lakes, and coastal waterways. The ministry also indicated that penalties for operating without proper licensing would rise to reflect the level of risk posed by such actions.
In a separate safety case from Vologda, investigators reported a drowning incident involving a mother and her seven-year-old son. The Regional Investigative Committee confirmed that the husband had placed his wife, child, and another family member on a motorboat while intoxicated, and the vessel lost control, capsizing and leading to the fatalities. This incident is cited in discussions about stricter enforcement and the potential for harsher penalties to prevent similar tragedies in the future. Officials emphasize that deterrence, across all age groups and regions, remains a central goal of the proposed reforms. [Source: Ministry of Emergency Situations, regional safety authorities]