Boaters would get guidance on choosing approved flotation devices

The Motor Vehicle Commission would add flotation device guidance to boat registration applications. This would cover owners of boats that must have a New Jersey registration number. Applicants could respond with a signature, initials, a checked box, or written or electronic confirmation of receipt. These requirements would start on the first day of the seventh month following enactment.

State Police rules would require detailed instruction about approved flotation device levels. The instruction would explain when each Coast Guard-approved level is legally required or recommended. Courses approved before the effective date could continue until their approval expires. The course requirement would take effect on the first day of the seventh month following enactment.

Personal watercraft businesses would give customers the information at the sale or rental. This would cover personal watercraft sold or rented for use on New Jersey waters. The guidance would explain when each approved level is required or recommended. Customers could use a signature, initials, a checked box, or written or electronic confirmation of receipt. These requirements would start on the first day of the seventh month following enactment.