What Connecticut’s New DUI/BUI Law Means for Boaters in 2026
Photo was taken at Chicken Rock in Sherman, CT by Olini Media
Connecticut has passed new legislation linking DUI (driving under the influence) and BUI (boating under the influence) penalties. Beginning October 1, 2025, a conviction on land can now affect boating privileges, and a conviction on the water can affect a driver’s license.
This change was enacted under Public Act No. 25-159, passed by the Connecticut General Assembly in 2025.
What the Law Changes
Under the updated statute, DUI and BUI penalties now operate reciprocally:
- A DUI conviction may result in suspension of a Safe Boating Certificate.
- A BUI conviction may result in suspension of a Connecticut driver’s license.
This closes what lawmakers described as a gap between land and water enforcement. The legislative text can be reviewed directly in the official public act linked above.
Why the Change Was Proposed
In early 2025, lawmakers discussed strengthening impaired operation enforcement following serious boating incidents, including a fatal crash in Old Saybrook. Reporting on those discussions can be found in coverage from Connecticut Public Radio.
The goal of the updated law is to ensure that impaired operation carries consequences across both roadways and waterways.
Existing BUI Penalties Still Apply
Connecticut already enforces boating under the influence laws under state statute. A person operating a vessel with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08% or higher, or who is otherwise impaired by alcohol or drugs, may face fines, jail time, and suspension of boating privileges.
A summary of BUI penalties can be reviewed under Connecticut General Statutes §15-133 via Connecticut statutory law.
Enforcement in 2026
Beginning with the 2026 boating season, enforcement agencies including the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) and the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) will coordinate suspensions under the new reciprocity framework.
For boating safety guidance and certification requirements, the Connecticut DEEP boating page provides official information: Connecticut DEEP Boating Division.
What This Means for Boaters
The practical takeaway is simple: impaired operation — whether on the road or on the water — now carries broader consequences. Boaters should understand that a DUI conviction can impact boating privileges, and a BUI conviction can impact driving privileges.
This reciprocal structure is intended to reinforce sober operation in both environments.
License / Representation Note
This post is informational and based on publicly available Connecticut legislation and official agency guidance. It is not legal advice.
More Candlewood Lake and boating updates are available at lakesidewatersports.com/blog.