SB 18 - This act revises the requirements for personal flotation devices (PFDs) carried upon watercraft. Current law requires most motorboats and sailboats to carry a type I, II or III PFD for each passenger. Motorboats under 16 feet and canoes must carry a type I, II, III or IV PFD. Type IV is a ring or cushion.

The act distinguishes between watercraft under 16 feet and over 16 feet. Most watercraft under 16 feet in length would have to carry at least one type III PFD for each person on board instead of the simpler type IV PFD. Various racing watercraft would be exempt from carrying any PFDs.

The act further allows assessment of penalty fess or registration cancellation for vessel owners only if ownership was documented with the U.S. Coast Guard prior to 8/94 and the owner received at least 30 days notice from the Department of Revenue that vessel registration is required.

DENISE GARNIER