The bill, S.B. No. 1465, amends the Parks and Wildlife Code to enhance safety regulations for recreational vessels. It introduces a new requirement that mandates each person on board a recreational vessel that is 16 feet or more in length to wear a wearable personal flotation device (PFD) as prescribed by the commandant of the Coast Guard while the vessel is underway. This addition aims to improve safety measures and reduce the risk of accidents on the water.

The new provision is added as Subsection (c-1) to Section 31.066 of the Parks and Wildlife Code, emphasizing the importance of personal flotation devices for individuals on larger vessels. The bill is set to take effect on September 1, 2025, allowing time for compliance and public awareness regarding the new safety requirements.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Parks and Wildlife Code 31.066 (Parks and Wildlife Code 31)