88R29465 BK-D
 
  By: Buckley H.R. No. 1785
 
 
 
R E S O L U T I O N
         WHEREAS, National Safe Boating Week is being observed from
  May 20 to 26, 2023; and
         WHEREAS, Boating, including fishing, sailing, paddling, and
  waterskiing, is an immensely popular recreational activity, and the
  U.S. Coast Guard and its federal, state, and local partners
  encourage all boaters to explore and enjoy America's beautiful
  waters responsibly; and
         WHEREAS, According to the National Safe Boating Council,
  approximately 650 people die in boating-related accidents in the
  United States each year, and 75 percent of those fatalities are
  caused by drowning; the vast majority of accidents occur because of
  human error or poor judgment and can be easily prevented through
  basic safety practices, such as carrying emergency communications
  equipment, participating in free boat safety checks, remaining
  sober while navigating, and wearing life jackets; and
         WHEREAS, Statistics have shown that nearly 83 percent of
  those who drowned in boating mishaps were not wearing a life jacket;
  although many boaters stow life jackets on board, there is rarely
  enough time to properly employ one in the event of an accident; in
  an effort to increase people's willingness to wear this essential
  piece of safety equipment, modern life jackets have been designed
  to be smaller, lighter, and more comfortable; and
         WHEREAS, Boating accidents happen regardless of one's level
  of experience, and wearing a life jacket is the most effective way
  to prevent drowning for veteran and novice boaters alike; now,
  therefore, be it
         RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 88th Texas
  Legislature hereby recognize May 20 to 26, 2023, as National Safe
  Boating Week and encourage Texans to practice safe boating habits
  and to wear life jackets at all times while on the water.