This bill amends Section 462A.9 of the Iowa Code to establish new regulations regarding the use of personal flotation devices (PFDs) on personal watercraft. It mandates that every person on board a personal watercraft must wear an approved type I, II, III, or V personal flotation device while the vessel is underway. However, there are exceptions for individuals who are at least 18 years old and when the personal watercraft is traveling at 10 miles per hour or less or is in a no-wake zone. The bill also clarifies that the requirement for a life preserver or similar device applies to all vessels, except for racing shells used in sculling and sailboards used for windsurfing.

Additionally, the bill specifies that violations of the personal flotation device requirement will result in a simple misdemeanor, which carries a scheduled fine of $30. The changes aim to enhance safety regulations for personal watercraft users while providing certain exemptions for experienced operators in low-risk situations. Overall, the bill seeks to improve water safety standards in Iowa by ensuring that personal flotation devices are worn by all passengers on personal watercraft.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 462A.9