MS HB1008

Increases the minimum age requiring Coast Guard approved personal flotation devices (life jackets) from 12 to 18 years old on motorboats, sailboats, and vessels under 26 feet in length while underway.

Increases the maximum penalty for violations of Mississippi boating law from $250 to $500 for violations of Sections 59-21-23(d), 59-21-29, 59-21-33, 59-21-55, 59-21-81 through 59-21-87, and 59-21-111 through 59-21-129.

Maintains existing penalties for violations of Section 59-21-31 at $250 to $500 fine and up to 30 days imprisonment, and other boating law violations remain at $25 to $250 fine.

Effective date is July 1, 2014.