To our NASBLA Community,
The National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA) is working to do our part to mitigate the spread and risks associated with COVID-19 to our staff, members and volunteers. Effective Monday, March 16th NASBLA initiated a response plan that will be in place until May 30th. In following public health and government recommendations, NASBLA has suspended all non-essential travel and gatherings.
While we are disappointed that we have had to postpone or cancel in person events and work sessions, NASBLA is dedicated to creating alternative opportunities for this collaboration and learning to take place. NASBLA is currently working to expand the number of virtual opportunities we can provide to our membership, volunteers and professionals in our community.
During these unprecedented times, NASBLA understands that member communications and community support has never been more important. Please be assured that NASBLA is continuing normal operations as much as possible and we are dedicated to helping our members adapt and identify innovative ways to support our collective mission.
The greatest impact from these travel restrictions will be seen in the NASBLA Boat Operations and Training (BOAT) Program. All BOAT courses that were scheduled to take place between March 16th and May 1st , 2020 have been postponed. The BOAT Program team however, is working with all agencies and hosts who have a course currently scheduled in 2020. We will reschedule and fulfill the need for these courses as soon as reasonably possible while staying true to the Program’s mission of supporting maritime first responders. NASBLA’s goal is to be as responsive to our members and customers' needs as possible while also being proactive in mitigating the spread of the COVID-19 virus.
NASBLA is dedicated to providing assistance to our members and providing professional development in innovative ways that will be effective no matter your current working environment. We appreciate the work of those in the public health field who are helping to guide our country through this COVID-19 response. NASBLA and our members have worked with these dedicated professionals in the realm of recreational boating and water safety and have seen the positive effect their work has on society. We are here to support them as well.
Wishing everyone health and safety in the weeks to come.
John Johnson, NASBLA Chief Executive Officer