HB349 Alabama 2012 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Randy Davis

Republican

Co-Sponsors

K.L. BrownBarry MaskSteve McMillanChad FincherJoe FaustHarry ShiverDickie DrakeVictor GastonDexter Grimsley

Session

Regular Session 2012

Title

Use of life jackets, persons operating vessels or boats on state waters with a child under 13 years of age aboard without an approved lifejacket, prohibited, Sec. 33-5-69 am'd

Summary

HB349 would require all persons under 13 on state waters to wear a USCG-approved life jacket, raising the previous age from under 8, with exemptions and penalties.

What This Bill Does

It raises the age at which wearing a flotation device is required from under 8 to under 13 on state waters; the requirement does not apply to someone inside an enclosed cabin or enclosed sleeping space. It requires PFDs to be strapped, snapped, or zipped securely and kept in good condition while worn. If a person with custody or control fails to ensure compliance, they can be charged with a Class B misdemeanor with a minimum $100 fine; the act becomes law on the first day of the third month after passage and governor approval.

Who It Affects

• Children under 13 on state waters: must wear a USCG-approved PFD at all times unless inside an enclosed cabin or enclosed sleeping space.
• Parents, guardians, and others responsible for a child or for the vessel: must ensure compliance; can face a Class B misdemeanor and at least a $100 fine if they fail to enforce the rule.

Key Provisions

• Amends Section 33-5-69 to require under-13s on state waters to wear a USCG-approved personal flotation device at all times, with an exception for enclosed cabins or sleeping spaces.
• PFDs must be strapped, snapped, or zipped securely and kept in good condition while worn.
• Any person with custody or control who allows noncompliance commits a Class B misdemeanor and may be fined at least $100.
• The act becomes effective on the first day of the third month after passage and governor approval.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 24, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.

Subjects

Recreation