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House passes personal watercraft rules after divided debate
Summary
The House approved HB 324 to regulate personal watercraft (age limits and restrictions) amid objections from members who said the measure was premature; the bill passed 44-26 and will go to the Senate.
The Utah House approved legislation to regulate personal watercraft on state waterways after a divided debate, voting 44-26 to send HB 324 to the Senate.
Representative Daniel H. Tuttle, sponsor, said the Parks Department requested the bill to establish age limits and operational restrictions for jet-propelled craft and to give park personnel tools to enforce safety. "It gives an age limit. It gives some restrictions, and it'll help the parks people regulate the waterways," the sponsor said.
Opponents including Representative Fox described the bill as premature and expressed concern about additional regulation of a recreational activity used by families. Fox said she had a conflict of interest because of family members who use personal watercraft and urged colleagues to vote against the measure.
Supporters responded that the industry and manufacturers wanted consistent rules and that the bill would protect buyers and operators. The House adopted the measure and forwarded it to the Senate.
Next steps: HB 324 will be considered by the Senate; sponsors expect park officials and manufacturers to participate in any follow-up rules or implementation discussions.
