Government Affairs State Boating Info Maine Boating News

Maine Boating News

February 2009

Bill would require life jacket wear on all boats

A bill now before the Maine State Legislature, HP 143, LD 164, would make it mandatory, with certain very limited exceptions, that "everyone in a watercraft wear a personal flotation device."

As written, the bill appears to apply to all boats, their operators and all passengers, on all waters of the state. It contains no qualifying language relative to boat type or size, or age of persons aboard.

The bill was referred to the Committee on Inland Fisheries and Wildlife on Jan 21 and as of Feb 20, there had been no action.

Sponsor: Rep. Watson of Bath Cosponsors: Sen Damon of Hancock, Rep. Percy of Phippsburg, Sen Trahan of Lincoln

To view the bill text, Click Here:

For specific questions about boating issues or BoatUS Government Affairs, please e-mail the department at GovtAffairs@BoatUS.com