MI HB5109

Requires all persons riding on or being towed behind a personal watercraft to wear a type I, II, or III personal flotation device as specified in Michigan Administrative Code.

Prohibits operating a personal watercraft unless all persons on board wear non-inflatable personal flotation devices.

Prohibits operating a personal watercraft with children under 7 years of age on board unless accompanied by a parent, guardian, or their designee.

Requires operators to attach the lanyard of an engine cutoff switch to their person, clothing, or personal flotation device when equipped by the manufacturer.

Restricts personal watercraft operation from sunset until 8 a.m., establishes a 150-foot distance requirement from other vessels at slow speeds, and prohibits operation in water less than 2 feet deep except at no-wake speed or when docking/launching; violations may result in civil fines up to $500.

Becomes effective November 1, 2012.