Expands the requirement for children to wear personal flotation devices
If passed, HB2212 would replace the current statute that exempts children under seven from wearing personal flotation devices. The new law would impose penalties, classifying a violation as a Class C misdemeanor for adults who permit children to be in non-compliance. This update aims to standardize safety measures and heighten awareness among parents and guardians about the importance of water safety, particularly for younger children who may be less capable of swimming or recognizing dangerous situations in water.
House Bill 2212, known as 'Hannah's Law', seeks to enhance safety regulations for children involved in water activities by mandating the use of personal flotation devices (PFDs). Specifically, the bill stipulates that all children under the age of thirteen must wear a Coast Guard-approved PFD while aboard any watercraft or when swimming in navigable public waters that are more than three feet deep. This change reflects an increasing concern for child safety in recreational water environments, particularly in response to historical incidents of drowning among young children.
Some opposition to HB2212 may arise from concerns that the legislation could impose excessive restrictions on families engaging in water activities. Critics might argue that the bill's requirements could be challenging to enforce and that they may place undue burdens on parents. Supporters, however, contend that such regulations are necessary to prevent tragedies and ensure the safety of children in and around water. The requirement for wearing flotation devices is positioned as a preventive measure to significantly reduce the risk of drowning, thereby promoting a safer recreational environment.