summary
Introduced
01/13/2025
01/13/2025
In Committee
01/17/2025
01/17/2025
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
06/27/2025
06/27/2025
Introduced Session
2025 Legislative Measures
Bill Summary
The statement includes a measure digest written in compliance with applicable readability standards. Digest: You cannot operate a boat with a child under 16 on board unless the child is wearing a properly fitted and secured life jacket. If you break this law, you could be fined up to $250. Children under 16 are also not allowed to use floating items outside of swimming areas unless they are wearing a life jacket. (Flesch Readability Score: 61.7). Prohibits operating a boat carrying a child under 16 years of age unless the child is wearing a properly sized and secured personal flotation device. Punishes by a maximum fine of $250. Prohibits a child under 16 years of age from using a floating item outside of a swimming area on waters of this state unless the child is wearing a properly sized and secured personal flotation device. Punishes by a fine of $25. Takes effect on the 91st day following adjournment sine die.
AI Summary
This bill enhances water safety regulations for children in Oregon by introducing new requirements for wearing personal flotation devices (life jackets) while boating and using floating items. The legislation mandates that children under 16 must wear a properly sized and secured life jacket when operating or riding in a boat, particularly on waters rated class III or higher difficulty. Additionally, children under 16 are prohibited from using floating items (such as beach toys, inner tubes, and buoyant foam) outside of clearly marked swimming areas without wearing a life jacket. The bill specifies different enforcement approaches based on the child's age: for children 11 and younger, citations will be issued to parents or guardians, while children 12-15 may receive citations directly. First-time offenders may avoid fines if they can prove they have an appropriately sized life jacket. Violations of these new regulations carry a presumptive fine of $25, and the law will take effect 91 days after the 2025 legislative session adjourns. The bill aims to reduce water-related accidents and improve child safety by ensuring proper use of personal flotation devices.
Committee Categories
Agriculture and Natural Resources
Sponsors (2)
Last Action
In committee upon adjournment. (on 06/27/2025)
Official Document
bill text
bill summary
Loading...
bill summary
Loading...
bill summary
| Document Type | Source Location |
|---|---|
| State Bill Page | https://olis.oregonlegislature.gov/liz/2025R1/Measures/Overview/SB700 |
| Open Government Impact Statement for SB700 INTRO | https://olis.oregonlegislature.gov/liz/2025R1/Downloads/MeasureAnalysisDocument/84894 |
| BillText | https://olis.oregonlegislature.gov/liz/2025R1/Downloads/MeasureDocument/SB700/Introduced |
Loading...