florida's 50 year law

[POMPANO JIG]

Does the 50 year law apply in state waters to 3 miles out.? If so, I think the case could be made for an injunction against the 1715 fleet leaseholders. I am not an attorney but if the leaseholders and subs were brought into court they would have two arguments.

One would be to agree that the 50 year law is unfair and try to get it overturned. In this case they would be allies of treasure hunters.

The second argument would be that their leases somehow override the 50 year law. This would clearly be a case of the state favoring one side over another. I think the law would be overturned because when the State of Florida allows someone to keep 80% of something over 50 years old the state is participating in a crime. I feel that is unconstitutional.

Don't get me wrong, I have nothing against the leaseholders ,but maybe they have some high priced lawyers that could be used to get this idiotic law changed.

[wreckdiver1715]

Since the State of Florida enacted the 50 year rule upon killing the Isolated Finds program, and the State has issued the Leases for salvage, one does not cancel out the other. A lease with the State of Florida is a legal binding contract, and thus it is unlikely that any contractor, or sub-contractor will ever be brought into court unless he has acted outside the rules of engagement as specified in his contract with the state.
That 50 year rule is geared for those without leases with the state. The purpose, so they can charge you with one more criminal charge, in addition to all the others if you get caught violating the law. The answer is to work within the confinds of the law. If you disagree with the law, then team up with one of the organizations that is dedicated to getting this ridiculous law repealed. Wright your state Representatives and the Governor, and remember, they do check to see if you are a regular voter in State and local elections. If you vote regularly, your letters carry much more weight with elected officials.

Tom

[DR]

Does anyone know of any petitions or other organized efforts to address this issue?