AL HB477

Amends Alabama Code Section 33-5-51 to include vessels within watercraft operation regulations and add criminal penalties for operating a vessel or personal watercraft at improper distances.

Requires operators of vessels or personal watercraft to maintain idle speed (lowest speed maintaining steering control) within 100 feet of moored boats, docks, piers, people in water, residential shorelines, public parks, beaches, marinas, and restaurants.

Expands personal flotation device requirements to apply to both vessels and personal watercraft, with all persons operating, riding on, or being towed required to wear U.S. Coast Guard-approved devices.

Increases penalties for improper distance violations to Class B misdemeanor with minimum $25 fine, with all fines collected going to the State Water Safety Fund.

Becomes effective on the first day of the third month following passage and gubernatorial approval.