Events

N.J. faces proposed change in life jacket law

New Jersey Assemblyman Jeff Van Drew (District 1: Cape May, Atlantic and Cumberland) has proposed a bill (A2212) that would require young boaters aged under 16 to wear a life jacket when a boat is underway. Current state law requires kids 12 and younger to wear life jackets. No state currently has a similar law pertaining to children older than 12. Thirty states require children under 12 to wear PFDs while underway, while 12 states have requirements for lower ages. In four states where there are no life jacket requirements USCG regulations require children under 12 years of age to wear life jackets on federal waterways.

Comment:

Although we can't underestimate the benefits of wearing life jackets while underway in questionable conditions (weather, chop, night) we'd hate to have teens forego boating altogether if they have to wear PFDs under hot and steamy conditions like we had this past summer. It's difficult enough to be a teen in America today. Let's not drive them away from a wholesome activity like boating.

To communicate your views with the legislators, visit http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/members/legsearch.asp

Posted April 2006