(WSBT) The Coast Guard told WSBT News Thursday they're fed up with having to save people who jump off the piers.

Friday, lawmakers said they're going to take action to prevent more deaths.

They're proposing hefty fines for people caught jumping off the pier. It's part of a larger package of laws aimed at making Michigan's piers and beaches safer.

Even after reports of people having to be rescued, or even drowning, after pier jumping, every day people continue to take the plunge.

"I hear about people getting hurt up here and stuff, and it's your own personal choice to jump in, but I do it because I have fun," Randy Bieffendfer told WSBT News.

Technically, it's illegal under federal law, but local police can't enforce it. Michigan legislators plan to change that.

They want to make jumping from piers a civil violation, punishable by a $500 fine.

"We would specifically make it a point to come out here and check whether or not we had jumpers, and if we did, we'd take enforcement action," said Chief Mark Clapp of the St. Joseph Police.

That's something pier jumpers don't want to see.

"I don't quite think it's right that they're gonna make it to where they can fine you for jumping off," Bieffendfer said. "But I mean if it's gonna start stopping people and getting them to stop hurting themselves, and people getting hurt out here, yeah it's a good idea, but I think it should be people's personal choice."

Another part of the legislation package would allow cities and counties to put life rings on piers and not have to worry about being sued if for some reason they're not here.

"So that they're not punished by putting up these safety devices and so we'll limit the liability for municipalities when they install these," explained Rep. Tonya Schuitmaker, R-Lawton.

"Unfortunately I think we need to remember that nothing is 100 percent safe," said Berrien County Commissioner Janette Leahey. "There is some personal responsibility here, and people have to accept that responsibility."

Another bill would add lifeguards to Michigan's Good Samaritan Law, meaning they won't be held liable if someone is injured during a rescue.

The entire package of bills will now to go to Michigan State House and Senate Commitee.