The state of Utah is currently proposing to eliminate their current rule that allows boaters to bring a throw bag on trips instead of a throwable personal flotation device. Federal Coast Guard rules require that all boats greater than 16 feet in length contain a throwable PFD. Utah's rule allowing throw bags better accomplishes safety goals than the Coast Guard rules, however the state has determined that they do not have the authority to waive the Coast Guard requirements. If Utah eliminates their rule, rafters with 16+ foot boats will once again have to carry a throwable PFD. Paddlers that have an opinion on this proposed rule changed are encouraged to contact Tammy Wright by e-mail at tammywright@utah.gov.
American Whitewater would like to see the state of Utah and the Coast Guard work together to change the Coast Guard's rules as they relate to river travel in order to allow for a throw bag to be carried instead of a throwable PFD. Utah's existing policy seems like a superior one to us, and we'd like to see it adopted nationally rather than eliminated.