Background:
My beautiful, loving and full of life 4 year old daughter Tilly died on the 4th July 2025. She was critically injured in a boating accident on Lake Oconee, Georgia USA. 
We were visiting from England and went to celebrate the 4th of July weekend with our family at the Harbour Club in Georgia. Following the fireworks display at the Great Waters (Reynolds) Golf Course, tall waves were created by two wake boats speeding parallel to our boat. This resulted in the waves caused by the wake boats to burst our door open. Water then rushed onto the boat floor and cabin. There was no way of controlling nor stopping the water from rushing in. Within seconds our boat tipped over and then capsized. We were thrown out of the boat; however, Tilly was trapped underneath the boat. 
Despite best rescue efforts from brave bystanders, Tilly passed away 48 hours later from the injuries she sustained. Things could have been very different with safer waterways and an enhanced response team presence. This proposal could certainly change this for the betterment of all Georgians.

State of Georgia Referendum Proposal Title: Tilly’s Law – Enhancing Water Safety and Emergency Response
Purpose: 
To implement stricter boating laws, increase penalties for reckless behavior, enhance emergency response presence on high-traffic waterways, and fund proper training for dive and rescue operations throughout Georgia.

SECTION 1: TITLE 
This Act shall be known and may be cited as “Tilly’s Law.”

SECTION 2: LEGISLATIVE FINDINGS 
The citizens of Georgia recognize the growing need for stronger water safety regulations following increased boating activity, injuries, and fatalities. “Tilly’s Law” is a direct response to preventable accidents and aims to protect the lives of all who use Georgia’s lakes, rivers, and coastal waters.

SECTION 3: STRONGER SAFETY LAWS FOR BOATERS 
All boaters operating motorized watercraft must complete a certified safety course approved by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR).
Mandatory use of life jackets for all individuals under the age of 18 while the vessel is in motion.
Prohibition of alcohol consumption for boat operators while operating any vessel, aligning penalties with DUI laws.

SECTION 4: INCREASED PENALTIES FOR RECKLESS BOATING 
Any person found guilty of reckless boating shall face increased penalties, including: 
Fines of up to $10,000
Potential suspension or revocation of boating privileges
Mandatory safety re-education courses
Possible criminal charges in cases involving injury or death

SECTION 5: EMS PRESENCE ON HIGH-VOLUME WATERWAYS 
The State shall allocate budget resources to ensure Emergency Medical Services (EMS) are deployed to high-volume recreational waterways during peak seasons and holidays.
EMS units will be equipped for marine response and integrated into the Georgia DNR’s water safety patrol system.

SECTION 6: DIVE AND RESCUE TRAINING FUNDING 
The annual state budget shall include a dedicated line item to: 
Provide certified dive and rescue training to all participating local and regional emergency responders.
Invest in updated rescue equipment and vessel support to aid in submersion recoveries and water-related emergencies.

SECTION 7: EFFECTIVE DATE 
Tilly’s Law shall take effect on January 1, 2026, upon approval by the majority of Georgia voters in the statewide election.

BALLOT LANGUAGE 
“Shall the State of Georgia enact Tilly’s Law to increase boating safety through stricter laws, higher penalties for reckless boating, greater EMS presence on busy waterways, and enhanced dive and rescue training funded by the state?”

☐ YES

☐ NO