Originally Posted by
R19
I can only speak about KY law because that is what I am familiar with and this is how I understand it...You must have enough Type I or Type II or Type II life jackets onboard so every person will have one. You must have at least one Type IV (throwable flotation device) if the boat is over (I can't remember either 15 or 16 ft) long. All life jackets and throwable device must be readily available in the event of an emergency. You do not have to wear it but it is suggested. HOWEVER if the only lifejackets you have are Type III then it must be worn all the time to be legal. Also children 12 and under must wear a lifejacket when the boat is moving but for adults it is optional but suggested. I "think" commercial water requires a lifejacket to be worn at all times even if its a Type I or Type II but I am not sure about that hence the word "think".
So in KY I can wear my Type III and take it off as long as I have a Type I or Type II in my possession and easily accessible in a storage locker. I know that sounds strange but that's the way I understand how it works. I would say this is what your seeing.