§33-5-72. Emergency engine or motor shut-off switch.

(a) It shall be unlawful on the waters of this state for any person to operate, or give permission to another person to operate, any vessel less than 24 feet in length having an open construction and having more than 50 horsepower, unless the vessel is equipped with an emergency engine or motor shut-off switch.

(b) The shut-off switch referred to in subsection (a), shall be a lanyard-type engine cutoff switch and shall be attached to the person, clothing, or personal flotation device of the operator, as is appropriate, and shall be constructed and installed in a manner so that when in use, any removal of the operator from the normal operating station will result in the immediate shut-off of the engine or motor.

(c) For the purpose of this section, "open construction" means any vessel described herein not having a permanently affixed top or cabin.

(d) Any person violating this section shall be guilty of a Class B misdemeanor, and upon conviction shall be punishable as provided by Sections 13A-5-7 and 13A-5-12. Any person so convicted shall be fined not less than one hundred dollars ($100).

(Acts 1994, No. 94-652, p. 1243, §26.)