All states have laws against boating under the influence (BUI), which make it a crime to operate a boat or watercraft on a public waterway while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
In Pennsylvania, operating a boat or other watercraft under the influence of alcohol or drugs is illegal, similar to driving a vehicle while impaired. The state's boating under the influence (BUI) laws are enforced to ensure safety on public waterways. The legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit for boaters is the same as for vehicle drivers, which is 0.08%. Penalties for BUI in Pennsylvania can include fines, imprisonment, and the loss of boating privileges. Additionally, Pennsylvania law requires mandatory boating safety education for certain boat operators, which includes information on the dangers and legal consequences of BUI. Enforcement of BUI laws is conducted by the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission, as well as other law enforcement agencies with jurisdiction over state waterways.