Boat owners and those planning to operate boats this year are advised to be aware of a new law going into effect tomorrow.
According to the Boat Owners Association of the United States, part of the National Defense Authorization Act includes U.S. Coast Guard Reauthorization mandating wearable engine cutoff devices.
Recreational boat operators on federally navigable waterways will be required to use either a helm or outboard lanyard or wireless engine cutoff switch when piloting boats less than 26 feet.
The goal of this law is to reduce boating accidents and fatalities if an operator is accidentally ejected overboard. For more information, visit the website of the U.S. Coast Guard.