Rhode IslandH60632025 Regular SessionHouseWALLET

AN ACT RELATING TO WATERS AND NAVIGATION -- PERSONAL WATERCRAFT SAFETY ACT .

Sponsored By: Jon D. Brien (Independent)

Signed by Governor

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

1 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.

Watercraft operators face two penalty tiers

Effective upon passage, Rhode Island law sets two penalty tiers for personal watercraft violations. Violations of sections 46-27-2(b) or 46-27-2(h) are misdemeanors, carrying fines up to $500, jail up to six months, or both. The privilege to operate a personal watercraft can also be suspended for up to six months for each violation. Other chapter violations and violations of state environmental agency rules on personal watercraft operation carry civil fines up to $250 each. The Rhode Island Traffic Tribunal handles these civil cases.

Sponsors & Cosponsors

Sponsor

Jon D. Brien
Independent • House

Cosponsors

Jacquelyn M. Baginski
Democratic • House
Stephen M. Casey
Democratic • House
Cherie L. Cruz
Democratic • House
David J. Place
Republican • House

Roll Call Votes

All Roll Calls

Yes: 70 • No: 0

House vote • 5/8/2025

PERSONAL WATERCRAFT SAFETY ACT PASSAGE