Relating to the wearing of a personal flotation device while being towed behind a motorboat or while engaged in water sports in or on the wake of a motorboat; creating a criminal offense.
Impact
If enacted, HB 2499 would amend the Parks and Wildlife Code by introducing requirements that directly impact the operation of motorboats in Texas. The law seeks to ensure that all individuals engaged in water sports while being towed or riding in the wake comply with safety regulations regarding flotation devices. This requirement could significantly influence local boating regulations and practices, providing a layer of state oversight to enhance public safety on water bodies.
Summary
House Bill 2499 focuses on the regulation of personal flotation devices in the context of water sports and boating activities. The bill mandates that individuals towed behind a motorboat or engaged in activities on the wake of a motorboat must wear a Coast Guard-approved personal flotation device. This legislation aims to enhance safety measures for participants in recreational water sports, aiming to reduce accidents and fatalities associated with water activities.
Sentiment
The general sentiment around HB 2499 appears to be supportive among safety advocates and boating enthusiasts who recognize the importance of ensuring safety measures are in place during water sports activities. However, there could be concerns regarding enforcement and the potential for additional regulations affecting recreational boating. Overall, the bill is seen as a step forward in improving safety standards associated with boating activities.
Contention
A notable point of contention regarding HB 2499 may pertain to the responsibilities placed on boat operators to ensure compliance with the flotation device requirement. There may be discussions surrounding the implications for law enforcement, as well as the need for public awareness campaigns to inform boaters and participants about the new regulations. Some stakeholders may express concerns that the bill imposes an additional burden on recreational boating, which is often viewed as a leisure activity.
Relating to prohibiting the carrying of a firearm by a member of a criminal street gang while engaged in certain criminal activity; creating a criminal offense; changing the eligibility for community supervision.
Relating to prohibiting the carrying of a handgun by a member of a criminal street gang while engaged in criminal activity; creating a criminal offense; changing the eligibility for community supervision.
Relating to remote vehicle disabling technology capable of being activated or engaged by a motor vehicle manufacturer or governmental entity; creating criminal offenses.
Relating to remote vehicle disabling technology capable of being activated or engaged by a motor vehicle manufacturer or governmental entity; creating criminal offenses.