Jefferson City, Mo. – State Sen. Lauren Arthur, D – Kansas City, has filed Senate Bill 119 to prevent children from drowning by requiring youth under the age of 12 on board any watercraft to wear a flotation device.
“The unimaginable loss of a child is something that no family should bear, especially when the death is preventable,” said Sen. Arthur. “This legislation will help families enjoy Missouri lakes and rivers while staying safe. Just as the law requires seat belts in cars, it should require floatation devices on the water for children. It’s a simple change that will make a big difference.”
This legislation, known as Hannah’s Law, was also filed during the 2018 legislative session in the Missouri House of Representatives. The legislation is named after a seven-year-old girl who drowned at Smithville Lake in Clay County, Missouri.
Drowning is the second-leading cause of unintentional injury death for children under the age of 14, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. This legislation would exclude children under 12 who are supervised by a lifeguard.
For a complete list of all bills filed for the 2019 legislative session, please visit the Missouri Senate’s website at senate.mo.gov.