The 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 is an exception for individuals who are at least 18 years old and when the personal watercraft is either moving at 10 miles per hour or less or is in a no-wake zone. This change aims to enhance safety measures for individuals operating or riding on personal watercraft.

Additionally, the bill clarifies that every vessel must carry at least one life preserver or similar device for each passenger, while also specifying that this requirement does not apply to racing shells used in sculling or sailboards used for windsurfing. The bill maintains the existing penalties for violations of the personal flotation device requirement, which is classified as a simple misdemeanor with a scheduled fine of $30. Overall, the legislation seeks to improve safety standards for personal watercraft users in Iowa.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 462A.9