MS HB281

Increases the minimum age requirement for wearing a Coast Guard approved personal flotation device on motorboats, sailboats, or vessels under 26 feet in length from 12 years old to 18 years old.

Requires all vessels to carry one Coast Guard approved personal flotation device for each person aboard.

Increases the maximum penalty for violations of Mississippi boating law from $250 to $500, applicable to violations of multiple boating safety sections including personal flotation device requirements.

Maintains existing requirement that personal watercraft operators and all passengers must wear type I, II, or III personal flotation devices.

Takes effect July 1, 2024.