WASHINGTON, D.C.– The Senate Commerce Committee today passed the Coast Guard Reauthorization Act of 2003 (S. 733). Included in the bill is a provision written by Senator Gordon Smith addressing small passenger vessel safety. The provision requires a report on enforcement efforts and compliance with a law requiring the master of small vessels to require passengers to don life jackets when possible hazardous conditions exist.
Two months ago, 11 people lost their lives in a tragic accident off the northern Oregon coast. The eight survivors were able to find floatation devices which helped them survive in 57 degree water. Not one of the 11 victims that died was wearing a life jacket.
"Now is the time to examine small vessel safety regulations and their effectiveness," said Smith. "This provision will help us understand what should be done to ensure safety on the seas."
The amendment requires the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security to report to Congress regarding enforcement efforts and degree of compliance to the 1996 amendments to the Small Passenger Vessel regulations. These regulations require the master of a small passenger vessel to don life jackets when possible hazardous conditions exist, including transiting hazardous bars or inlets, during severe weather, in the event of flood or fire, or other events that might call for evacuation.
"The report required by this legislation will provide a good base of information from which to move forward and prevent unnecessary loss of life," said Smith. "The sooner we can examine the problem, the sooner it can be solved."
