MISSISSIPPI LEGISLATURE

2001 Regular Session

To: Wildlife and Fisheries

By: Senator(s) Posey

AN ACT TO AMEND SECTION 59-21-81, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO REQUIRE PERSONS ABOARD VESSELS UNDERWAY TO WEAR PERSONAL FLOTATION DEVICE; AND FOR RELATED PURPOSES.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI:

SECTION 1. Section 59-21-81, Mississippi Code of 1972, is amended as follows:

59-21-81. Every vessel shall have on board a Coast Guard approved personal flotation device for each person aboard such vessel, and every person * * * on board a motorboat, sailboat or vessel * * * shall wear a * * * Coast Guard approved personal flotation device while such motorboat, sailboat or vessel is underway. For the purpose of this section "underway" shall mean at all times except when a motorboat, sailboat or vessel is anchored, moored or aground. Every vessel shall have lights during the hours of darkness, which comply with all federal regulations applicable to vessels of its classification. Such vessel shall not be operated unless in a safe and seaworthy condition; the owner and operator shall employ such safety devices as may be necessary for the safe operation of such vessel, including an efficient natural or mechanical ventilating system when necessary for safe operation. In addition to the requirements imposed by this section, all vessels shall comply with all federal regulations applicable to vessels of such classification.

SECTION 2. This act shall take effect and be in force from and after July 1, 2001.