New Federal Boating Law took effect yesterday

[Bizywk]

New Boating Law Requires Use of Engine Cut-Off Switches (ECOS)
U.S. Coast Guard requirement set to take effect April 1, 2021.


This passed in a buried sub-section of the National Defense Authorization Act of 2021

Responsible boaters have always known that it's a good safety practice, but now it's illegal to not use the cutoff for vehicles less than 26' without a pilot house when on plane.

New Boating Law Requires Use of Engine Cut-Off Switches (ECOS)

Using an ECOS-an engine cut-off switch (formerly known as a kill switch)-is required of many boaters in the U.S. beginning April 1, 2021.

www.boatingmag.com

 

[Trannyguy]

I’m not usually one to agree with most of the laws that get passed but this one is actually a good idea. Wonder if they will enforce it?

 

[ripler]

I always try to remember to wear mine especially if no one else is in the boat.

Looks like you only need to be wearing it while "on plane".

From the coast guard FAQ

Q12. Do I need to keep the Engine Cut-Off Switch Link attached at all times?

A12. No. The Engine Cut-Off Switch Link doesn’t need to be attached when the vessel is idling or performing docking maneuvers. The Engine Cut-Off Switch Link must be attached whenever the boat is operating on plane or greater than displacement speed

Q13. What does “on plane” mean?

A13. For a boat, “on plane” means the boat has reached a speed that moves the boat from a “displacement” mode to a “planing” mode. As more power (and speed) is applied, lift increases, and the boat, in effect, rides over its bow wave, reducing wetted area of the hull and thus reducing drag. At this point, the boat is said to be "on a plane" or simply "planing." Sailing vessels are generally not capable of getting “on plane” because of their displacement hull, whereas a ski boat, bass boat or runabout can usually achieve planing with little effort.

 

[Quad]

Is anyone using the Fell marine wireless MOB system? How are you wiring it up for power?

 

[zipper]

https://jetboaters.net/threads/uscg-regs-for-kill-switch-use-on-boats-built-after-1-1-20.31734/

 

[OrangeTJ]

Not all boats have one (mine included). Wonder if there will be a requirement to have one retrofitted. Guess I'd better do some more reading!

 

[zipper]

Not all boats have one (mine included). Wonder if there will be a requirement to have one retrofitted. Guess I'd better do some more reading!

Your boat is a 2016. You are not required to install one. If you do, you are required to use it. All boats under 26' and built after 1/1/20 are required to have one installed by the manufacturor and now boaters are required to use it if you have one.

 

[OrangeTJ]

Your boat is a 2016. You are not required to install one. If you do, you are required to use it. All boats under 26' and built after 1/1/20 are required to have one installed by the manufacturor and now boaters are required to use it if you have one.

Thanks! Saved me the digging.