HB 389 Summary

• Simplifies personal flotation device (PFD) requirements by requiring boats to carry wearable PFDs that are Coast Guard approved, in serviceable condition, and readily accessible for each person onboard, removing previous distinctions between Type I, II, III, and Type V devices.

• Requires boats 16 feet or longer (except kayaks and canoes) to carry one throwable PFD that is readily accessible, replacing the previous "Type IV" specification.

• Mandates children under 13 years of age wear wearable PFDs while on boat decks or in open boats, with requirements that devices be Coast Guard approved and in serviceable condition.

• Increases the boating accident reporting threshold from $500 to $2,000 in property damage and aligns reporting procedures with United States Coast Guard requirements under 46 U.S.C. 6102.

• Authorizes peace officers to stop boats operated in violation of boating safety laws and order operators to take corrective safety measures, with authority to issue citations for violations or willful refusal to comply.