The Governor today signed into law RBOC-supported personal flotation device [PFD] legislation that will enhance safety on the state's waterways.
AB 638 authored by Assembly Member Jim Frazier [D-Oakley] prohibits a person from operating a motorboat, sailboat, or vessel of any length unless every person on board under the age of 13 is wearing a PFD while the vessel is underway.
There are specific exceptions for children under the age of 13 who are in an enclosed cabin, are tethered to a sailboat, are engaged in emergency rescues, are participating in specified organized events, or are operating certain federally-regulated vessels.
The provisions of the bill will take effect on January 1, 2016.