Establishes the "Missouri Patrol on Wave Runners Task Force"
Impact
The bill aims to improve safety on bodies of water that span over 1,100 miles of shoreline, ensuring that law enforcement is both proactive and reactive to potential accidents and unlawful activities. It establishes a dedicated patrol to enforce existing regulations and provide essential first responder services on lakes where the public frequently engages in recreational boating. This protective measure is expected to reduce the incidents related to watercraft accidents and enhance awareness about boating safety.
Summary
House Bill 2668 introduces the 'Missouri Patrol on Wave Runners Task Force' (MO-POWR) to enhance law enforcement and safety measures for personal watercraft on lakes with extensive shorelines. This bill dictates the establishment of a task force that will operate in counties of specific population sizes, focusing on promoting water safety and enforcing boating laws. The task force will employ trained law enforcement officers and first responders, ensuring a presence on the water for public safety education as well as enforcement of state laws.
Contention
Potential points of contention may arise concerning the funding and operational oversight of the task force. The bill creates a new fund dedicated to this task force, leading to discussions regarding its sustainability and resource allocation. Additionally, enforcement personnel will need proper training and certification, which might be debated among lawmakers regarding the extent of required qualifications and whether existing law enforcement agencies can accommodate these new responsibilities effectively.