Bill > HB436

This bill modifies Mississippi's boating safety regulations by increasing the minimum age for mandatory life jacket wear from twelve to eighteen years old on certain vessels less than twenty-six feet in length. Specifically, the bill requires that every person eighteen years or younger must wear a Coast Guard-approved personal flotation device (life jacket) while a motorboat, sailboat, or vessel is underway, which is defined as anytime the vessel is not anchored, moored, or aground. Additionally, the bill increases the maximum penalty for violations of the Mississippi Boating Law from $250 to $500, providing a stronger deterrent for non-compliance. The changes aim to enhance water safety by ensuring that younger individuals are properly protected while on smaller watercraft. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, giving boat owners and operators time to adjust to the new requirements. The provisions apply to various types of vessels, including personal watercraft, and maintain existing requirements for safety equipment and operation.

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https://billstatus.ls.state.ms.us/2025/pdf/history/HB/HB0436.xml