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Age raise for Florida watercraft operators defeated

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By The Associated Press

Published: April 24, 2009

TALLAHASSEE - The Florida Senate says it is all right that 14-year-olds can operate high-powered watercraft.

The Senate rejected a bill (SB 306) that would have increased the age to 16 for youngsters to be in control of jet skis or other recreational watercraft.

By a 19-15 vote, the Senate defeated the proposal called "senseless" during debate. It would have applied only to Floridians and not out-of-state teens enjoying similar recreation while vacationing or visiting.

The bill was offered by Democratic Sen. Nan Rich, who said she was trying to save lives.

A similar House measure (HB 155) is stalled in committee.

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