BAN JUMPING AND SWIMMING

FROM GREAT LAKES PIERS

Senate Bill 629 (Proposed Substitute H-1)

Sponsor:  Sen. Ron Jelinek

House Committee:  Tourism, Outdoor Recreation and Natural Resources

Senate Committee:  Natural Resources and Environmental Affairs

Complete to 3-3-08

A SUMMARY OF SENATE BILL 629 (PROPOSED H-1)

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

·                    Allow the legislative body of a political subdivision to adopt an ordinance banning jumping, diving, or swimming from a publicly-owned pier, jetty, or breakwater located in the Great Lakes or their connecting waters. 

·                    Specify that this type of local ordinance would not apply to: 

o                   Any person undertaking a rescue.

o                   Authorized public safety personnel conducting training. 

o                   A scuba diver possessing proof of certification from a nationally-recognized agency.

o                   A person being trained as a scuba diver under the supervision of a scuba instructor possessing proof of certification as a scuba instructor from a nationally-recognized agency.

o                   A person launching a surfboard, boogie board, or body board to surf so long as the device is attached to the person with a leash or cord and the device is not inflatable. 

·                    Require that a violation of a local ordinance under this section designate a violation as a municipal civil infraction subject to a civil fine of not more than $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. 

           

            MCL 324.80155a

                                                                                           Legislative Analyst:   Shannan Kane

■ 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.