Boating safety on Lake George has been a hot topic in recent years, and New York State continues to evaluate and update the regulations. Read on to find out what to know about Brianna’s Law, now in effect.
What the New Law Entails
Brianna’s Law requires all operators of motorized boats and personal watercraft to take a safe boating course and get a boating safety certificate by 2025. The law has a phased-in approach:
- Those born on or after January 1, 1993 will need a boating safety certificate beginning in 2020.
- Those born on or after January 1, 1988 will need a boating safety certificate beginning in 2022.
- Those born on or after January 1, 1983 will need a boating safety certificate beginning in 2023.
- Those born on or after January 1, 1978 will need a boating safety certificate beginning in 2024.
- All motor boat operators regardless of age will need a boating safety certificate beginning in 2025.
The new law is named after Brianna Lieneck, an 11-year-old Long Island girl who was killed in a boating accident.
How You Can Obtain a Certificate
Boaters can get their boating safety certificate by taking an in-classroom or online course. There are free and paid options available. Students 18 years of age and older must pay $10 for their permanent certificate, and there’s no charge for students under the age of 18.
Find a safety course near you >>
What Else to Know
If you’re an out-of-state resident New York State recognizes the boating safety certificate issued by your home state.
Operators of sailboats, kayaks, stand up paddleboards, rowboats, canoes, and any other watercraft without a motor are not required to have a boating safety certificate to be on the water (although it’s always a good idea to take a boating course).
If you boat during the off season: In New York State everyone must wear a life jacket on recreational boats under 21 feet in length from November 1 to May 1. This includes the non-motorized boats listed above.
