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GA SB469
Bill
Status
Passed
5/13/2022
Primary Sponsor
Tyler Harper
Click for details
AI Summary
- Requires all vessels operating on Georgia's coastal waters (as defined by 33 C.F.R. Section 175.105(b)) to carry U.S. Coast Guard-approved visual distress signals, including flares, smoke signals, and nonpyrotechnic signals
- Mandates night visual distress signals (sunset to sunrise) for all vessels on coastal waters, with a minimum of three unexpired pyrotechnic signals if that type is carried; one electric distress light may satisfy the nighttime requirement
- Requires daytime visual distress signals (sunrise to sunset) for all vessels on coastal waters except recreational vessels under 16 feet, nonmotorized open sailboats under 26 feet, and manually propelled vessels
- Adds a statutory definition of "visual distress signal" and updates the definition of "personal flotation device" to reference devices classified and approved by U.S. Coast Guard regulations, rather than listing specific types (I through V)
- Violations of the vessel equipment requirements, including the new visual distress signal provisions, are punishable as a misdemeanor
Legislative Description
Watercraft; certain watercraft to have day and night visual distress signals on board when on coastal waters of Georgia; require
Last Action
Effective Date 2022-07-01
5/13/2022
Committee Referrals
Game, Fish & Parks2/24/2022
Natural Resources and the Environment2/8/2022
Full Bill Text
No bill text available