BAN JUMPING AND SWIMMING

FROM GREAT LAKES PIERS

Senate Bill 629

Sponsor:  Sen. Ron Jelinek

House Committee:  Tourism, Outdoor Recreation and Natural Resources

Senate Committee:  Natural Resources and Environmental Affairs

Complete to 2-26-08

A SUMMARY OF SENATE BILL 629 AS PASSED BY THE SENATE 10-17-07

The bill would amend Part 801 (Marine Safety) of the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act to:

·                    Prohibit a person from jumping, diving, or swimming from a pier, jetty, breakwater, buoy (or other similar structure or navigational device) located in the Great Lakes or their connecting waters.  (In Section 3101 of NREPA, "Great Lakes" means the Great Lakes and their connecting waters, including Lake St. Clair.) 

·                    Provide an exception for any person undertaking a rescue and authorized public safety personnel conducting training. 

·                    Make a violation of this section a state civil infraction subject to a civil fine of up to $500. 

·                    Specify that Part 801 would apply to "water-based activities" in addition to vessels and associated equipment used on waters subject to the jurisdiction of the State of Michigan. 

            (Note:  A similar bill, House Bill 4699, has been introduced in the House.)

            MCL 324.80155a

FISCAL IMPACT:

The bill would have an indeterminate fiscal impact on local governmental units.   Fine revenue collected under the bill would be credited to local public libraries.  State expenses related to the posting of signs or other enforcement costs can be absorbed through existing enacted appropriations.

                                                                                           Legislative Analyst:   Shannan Kane

                                                                                                  Fiscal Analyst:   Kirk Lindquist

■ This analysis was prepared by nonpartisan House staff for use by House members in their deliberations, and does not constitute an official statement of legislative intent.