Pennsylvania HR 496: A Resolution recognizing the week of May 16 through 22, 2026, as "National Safe Boating Week" in Pennsylvania.

Bill Text

PRINTER'S NO. 3307
THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF PENNSYLVANIA
HOUSE RESOLUTION
No. 496
Session of
2026
INTRODUCED BY HOHENSTEIN, WAXMAN, HARKINS, NEILSON, CONKLIN,
KULIK, HILL-EVANS, SANCHEZ, McNEILL, DOUGHERTY, GUENST,
FREEMAN, GALLAGHER, RIVERA, CEPEDA-FREYTIZ, PASHINSKI,
MALAGARI, D. WILLIAMS AND HADDOCK, APRIL 28, 2026
REFERRED TO COMMITTEE ON GAME AND FISHERIES, APRIL 29, 2026
A RESOLUTION
Recognizing the week of May 16 through 22, 2026, as "National
Safe Boating Week" in Pennsylvania.
WHEREAS, Boating is a fun and healthy recreational activity,
from canoeing and kayaking on Pennsylvania's numerous creeks and
ponds to deepwater boating on large rivers and lakes; and
WHEREAS, Safety is the most important consideration in any
boating activity; and
WHEREAS, Basic knowledge, skills and safety equipment are
required to ensure that boat operators, whether first-time
participants or seasoned operators, understand the exemplary
benefits of being out on the water as well as potential risks
and dangers; and
WHEREAS, The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission, in
partnership with other organizations and entities, provides
basic boating courses, paddling safety and educational
opportunities for the public; and
WHEREAS, Pennsylvania law requires an individual to obtain a
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boating safety education certificate if the individual was born
after January 1, 1982, and operates a powerboat with a motor
greater than 25 horsepower or if the individual operates a
personal watercraft; and
WHEREAS, United States Coast Guard-approved, properly sized
and fitted life jackets are required for each person aboard a
watercraft; and
WHEREAS, Life jackets are the most important piece of
equipment on a boat, as nearly 80% of all boating fatalities in
this Commonwealth occur because boaters were not wearing a life
jacket at the time of the incident; and
WHEREAS, Lives can be saved each year by the simple act of
wearing life jackets while boating; and
WHEREAS, Safe boating practices and the responsible, legal
use of prescription drugs or alcohol are everyone's
responsibility; and
WHEREAS, Recognizing and promoting safe boating practices and
wearing a life jacket while enjoying Pennsylvania's waterways
are essential; therefore be it
RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives recognize the
week of May 16 through 22, 2026, as "National Safe Boating Week"
in Pennsylvania.
20260HR0496PN3307 - 2 -
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