Hundreds of Minnesota fishing guides, outfitters and tour operators are facing expensive safety regulations enforced by the U.S. Coast Guard that include, among other things, random drug testing.
The Coast Guard has notified Minnesota commercial outfitters and guides that unless they have a federal “Six Pack” license, they no longer can operate their small boats on federally navigable waters, such as the Mississippi River, the St. Croix River or many lakes in northern Minnesota.
The Six Pack license requires commercial boat operators to pass a lengthy test on navigation and boat safety; have CPR certification; pass a physical and health examination; prove they have three to 12 months of on-water boating experience; submit three personal references; and pass a drug test. They also must be 18 years or older.
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