From staff reportsState boating laws have changed, and citizens who plan on boating should be informed about changes before operating a vessel on public waters. Georgia Department of Natural Resources Lt. Col. Jeff Weaver, assistant director of law enforcement, suggests people take advantage of a boating educational course, which will be a requisite for boaters turning 16 this year, as well as future boaters who are not yet 16. The course will educate participants on life jacket safety, the “100-foot law,” minimum age limits for boat operators, and penalties and dangers of boating under the influence.