H.R. No. 1290
R E S O L U T I O N
WHEREAS, National Safe Boating Week is being observed from
May 18 to 24, 2019; and
WHEREAS, Boating, including fishing, sailing, paddling, and
waterskiing, is an immensely popular recreational activity, and the
U.S. Coast Guard and its federal, state, and local partners
encourage all boaters to explore and enjoy America's beautiful
waters responsibly; and
WHEREAS, According to the National Safe Boating Council,
approximately 650 people die in boating-related accidents in the
United States each year, and 76 percent of those fatalities are
caused by drowning; the vast majority of accidents occur because of
human error or poor judgment and can be easily prevented through
basic safety practices, such as carrying emergency communications
equipment, participating in free boat safety checks, remaining
sober while navigating, and wearing life jackets; and
WHEREAS, Statistics have shown that nearly 85 percent of
those who drowned in boating mishaps were not wearing a life jacket;
although many boaters stow life jackets on board, there is rarely
enough time to properly employ one in the event of an accident; in
an effort to increase people's willingness to wear this essential
piece of safety equipment, modern life jackets have been designed
to be smaller, lighter, and more comfortable; and
WHEREAS, Boating accidents happen regardless of one's level
of experience, and wearing a life jacket is the most effective way
to prevent drowning for veteran and novice boaters alike; now,
therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 86th Texas
Legislature hereby recognize May 18 to 24, 2019, as National Safe
Boating Week and encourage Texans to practice safe boating habits
and to wear life jackets at all times while on the water.
Paul
______________________________
Speaker of the House
I certify that H.R. No. 1290 was adopted by the House on May
3, 2019, by a non-record vote.
______________________________
Chief Clerk of the House