Vessel operator: definition.

Existing law regulates vessels, as defined, and the equipment used, to be used, or carried in vessels used on waters subject to the jurisdiction of this state, except as provided. For these purposes, existing law defines an "operator" to mean the person on board who is steering the vessel while underway. This bill would revise that definition of "operator" to mean the person aboard a vessel who meets any of the following: (1) is steering the vessel while underway; (2) is responsible for the operation of the vessel while underway; or (3) is at least 18 years of age and is attentive and supervising the operation of the vessel by a person 12, 13, 14, or 15 years of age, pursuant to a specified provision. By changing the definition of operator to include additional persons who may, as operators, be subject to criminal liability, the bill would expand the definition of a crime, and thus would impose a state-mandated local program. The California Constitution requires the state to reimburse local agencies and school districts for certain costs mandated by the state. Statutory provisions establish procedures for making that reimbursement. This bill would provide that no reimbursement is required by this act for a specified reason.