WASHINGTON, D.C.–Some people want to see the end of duck boats as entertainment. Congressman Andre Carson wants to make the companies that operate them make them safer. He’s reintroduced the Duck Boat Safety Act in Congress.

Carson first brought the legislation last year when nine people from Indianapolis, members of the Coleman family, were among 17 people who died when a duck boat capsized and sank on Table Rock Lake, in Branson, Missouri, during a severe thunderstorm.

Since then, several lawsuits have been filed, saying that the captain of the boat should not have taken the boat out with impending severe weather, but also that the canopy installed on the boat trapped people underwater when she sank.

“While duck boats can offer fun, enjoyment and adventure for passengers, we have seen they can also be deadly. For the memory of all of who have been hurt or killed in tragic accidents on these boats, and for the safety of all who board them in the future, we have an obligation to make this bill law quickly,” said Carson.

The NTSB made their recommendations in 2002 to improve the safety of duck boats in flooding and sinking situations, but they have not been fully implemented. Carson’s legislation would enact these changes and, until full compliance is met, would also incorporate interim safety measures. They include:

Removing or replacing canopies from vessels for waterborne operations, with structures that do not restrict escape in the event of flooding or sinking;

Require that all passengers wear a personal flotation device while the vessel is on the water;

Require compliance with existing Coast Guard regulations related to the inspection, configuration, and operation of such vessels.

“While nothing can ever ease the constant grief in my heart, I am grateful that Congressman Carson is fighting for justice for my family, and the other victims, and is committed to making sure that duck boats are safe,” said Tia Coleman, who lost several members of her immediate family. “No other family should ever have to deal with the horrors of losing their loved ones in such a horrific way.”