[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 44, Number 19 (Monday, May 19, 2008)]
[Pages 709-710]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Proclamation 8256--National Safe Boating Week, 2008

 May 15, 2008

 By the President of the United States

 of America

 A Proclamation

    Our Nation's beautiful waterways provide opportunities for 
recreational activities for millions of Americans. During National Safe 
Boating Week, we raise awareness of the importance of practicing and 
promoting safe boating.
    Recreational boating is one of America's most popular pastimes, and 
it is important for every boater to take proper safety precautions. The 
United States Coast Guard encourages citizens to take preventive 
measures such as wearing a life jacket, never boating under the 
influence of drugs or alcohol, and taking a boating safety course. Too 
often, accidents occur on boats where the operator had not received 
boating safety instruction. Receiving a vessel safety check once a year 
will also help ensure a safe boating experience. To learn important 
information about boating, visit uscgboating.org. During National Safe 
Boating Week and throughout the year, I urge all Americans to put safety 
first when enjoying our country's magnificent waters.
    In recognition of the importance of safe boating practices, the 
Congress, by joint resolution approved June 4, 1958 (36 U.S.C. 131), as 
amended, has authorized and requested the President to proclaim annually 
the 7-day period prior to Memorial Day weekend as ``National Safe 
Boating Week.''
    Now, Therefore, I, George W. Bush, President of the United States of 
America, do hereby proclaim May 17 through May 23, 2008, as National 
Safe Boating Week. I encourage the Governors of the 50 States and the 
Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, and officials of other areas subject to the 
jurisdiction of the United States, to join in observing this

[[Page 710]]

week. I also urge all Americans to learn more about safe boating 
practices and always act responsibly while on the water.
    In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand this fifteenth day 
of May, in the year of our Lord two thousand eight, and of the 
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-
second.
                                                George W. Bush

 [Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, 8:58 a.m., May 19, 
2008]

Note: This proclamation was released by the Office of the Press 
Secretary on May 16, and it will be published in the Federal Register on 
May 20.