(a) (1) No operator of any vessel may operate such vessel while any person 12 years of age or under is aboard or being towed by such vessel unless such person is either:

(A) Wearing a United States coast guard-approved personal flotation device as prescribed in rules and regulations of the secretary of wildlife and parks; or

(B) is below decks or in an enclosed cabin.

(2) A life belt or ring shall not satisfy the requirement of this section.

(b) Violation of subsection (a) shall constitute a class C nonperson misdemeanor.