Final answer:
The accurate statement regarding towing a person behind a vessel in Washington concerns the protected fishing rights of the tribes following Belloni and Boldt decisions, ensuring their right to fish and half the catch.
Step-by-step explanation:
In response to the question about towing a person behind a vessel in Washington State, the accurate statement relates to the rights of the tribes following the Belloni and Boldt decisions. These court decisions, Belloni (Sohappy v. Smith/United States v. Oregon, 1969) and Boldt (United States v. Washington, 1974), established that the tribes, even those that had been terminated and not yet restored, have maintained their rights to fish in their usual and accustomed ways. Moreover, they have the right to half of the fish catch in Washington State. While this information pertains to fishing rights and not directly to the activity of towing behind a vessel, it emphasizes the recognized and protected rights of the tribes within the state when it comes to using the waterways for traditional practices, which could include fishing activities carried out from vessels.
According to Washington State law, a person can be towed behind a vessel if they are wearing a personal flotation device and the vessel has a rear-facing observer who is at least 12 years old and has a clear view of the person being towed. Additionally, the vessel must have a towing flag or a bright orange flag attached to the towline.
It is important to follow these regulations to ensure the safety of the person being towed and other boaters in the area. Failure to comply with these regulations may result in fines or other penalties.