This bill introduces a definition for "personal water craft" and establishes specific operational regulations to enhance safety on lakes, ponds, and rivers. The term "personal water craft" is defined as a motor boat that is 16 feet or less in length, propelled by a jet pump, and designed for operators and riders to stand, kneel, straddle, or sit on rather than inside the craft. The bill prohibits individuals under the age of 16 from operating these crafts, restricts operation between sunset and sunrise, and mandates that all operators and passengers wear a Coast Guard-approved personal flotation device.

Additionally, the bill outlines penalties for violations of these regulations. Violating the age, time of operation, or flotation device requirements will result in a violation charge, while operating a personal water craft in a careless or negligent manner will be classified as a misdemeanor. The bill also includes an effective date of January 1, 2026, and notes that the fiscal impact on state and local governments is indeterminable, particularly concerning potential costs related to judicial and correctional systems due to the introduction of new penalties.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 270:2