Illinois House Bill HR0061

Illinois 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/9/23
• Refer: 2/14/23
• Refer: 3/7/23
• Report Pass: 3/14/23
• Passed: 5/2/23

Caption

SAFE BOATING WEEK

Impact

The resolution serves to raise awareness about the risks associated with boating and the importance of adhering to safety measures, such as taking safe boating courses and participating in safety checks. By officially recognizing Safe Boating Week, Illinois aims to enhance public engagement and encourage a culture of safety that can potentially reduce boating-related accidents and fatalities across the state.

Summary

House Resolution 0061, known as the Safe Boating Week resolution, aims to promote safety among boaters by designating May 20 through May 26, 2023, as Safe Boating Week in Illinois. The resolution highlights the popularity of boating as a recreational activity enjoyed by over 100 million Americans and emphasizes that safe boating begins with proper preparation, including the use of life jackets. The U.S. Coast Guard cites that human error is a leading cause of boating accidents, and wearing life jackets can notably prevent fatalities associated with drownings.

Contention

While the resolution itself does not have direct legal implications as it serves more as a declaration, it does open up dialogue about boating safety regulations and practices. Advocates for boating safety argue that designating a specific week also provides an opportunity for law enforcement and safety organizations to collaborate on outreach efforts to address the risks of boating. However, there may be underlying contention related to enforcement of safety regulations, where some stakeholders may argue for greater accountability among boaters.