New York Boaters Now Require Safety Certification

New York Requires Boating Safety ⁣Course ‌for All operators

Starting January 1st, boating ⁣in New York State waters​ will look‍ a little different. The state is now requiring all boaters, irrespective of ⁢age, to complete an approved safety⁣ course before hitting the water. This comes as part ‌of Brianna’s ⁤Law, a legislation enacted in 2019‌ to improve boating safety and honor the ​memory of ‍Brianna Lieneck, an 11-year-old girl who tragically lost her life in a boating accident in 2005. This mandatory safety course covers essential skills⁢ and regulations to ensure safer navigation on the waterways. ​Boaters will be required to present their certification to law enforcement upon request. Those with a valid driver’s license can add a boating safety endorsement⁣ to their ID.

Expanding Boating Knowlege

Organizations⁢ like the United States ⁤Power ‍Squadron, ⁣also known as America’s Boating Club, offer the​ state-approved boating safety ‌course in various formats, including in-person, online, and hybrid options. Fred Smith, a past ‍commander of the Peconic Bay chapter of Power Squadron, emphasizes the‍ importance ⁤of ⁢safety ⁢and knowledge, stating, “Safety⁤ is the main objective.⁢ Our course expands that quite a bit with more data about finding your way on the water,​ handling a boat.” He adds, “more to‍ show ⁤peopel how much there is to learn, rather than ​to ⁢be able to teach everything.” Beyond the basic ⁤safety course, organizations like the Power Squadron provide​ a range of additional educational opportunities​ for boaters. Thes include courses on boat operation, navigation, marine electronics, ‍engine​ maintenance, and weather.

Enforcing Safe Boating Practices

Southold Town⁤ bay constable John Kirincic anticipates that the new requirement will substantially impact routine marine ⁢inspections. As he stated, “It’s basically going‌ to turn into another item you need to‌ have on your boat, so it’ll be checked more frequently than in​ the past, because now it’s everybody [who is required to have it],” adding, “It’ll be part of our checklist.” Kirincic believes the mandatory safety course​ will make a positive contribution to overall water safety, saying, “everybody needs this course. Maybe they’ll learn a​ little something about boating. maybe that helps this situation where not everybody is just going crazy out ⁤there and doesn’t know what to do.” For a complete ‍list of ⁣all New York ‌State approved boating safety courses, visit https://parks.ny.gov/boating/education.aspx.
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## Archyde Exclusive: New york Mandates Boating Safety Course For All Operators





**(Archyde) -** As the new year dawns, boating regulations in New York State are undergoing a significant shift designed to prioritize safety on the water. Beginning January 1st, 2025, all boat operators, irrespective of age or experience, will be required to complete a state-approved boating safety course. This landmark measure, known as Brianna’s Law, was signed into legislation in 2019 by Governor Andrew Cuomo in honor of Brianna Lieneck adn aims to substantially reduce boating accidents and fatalities.



To delve deeper into brianna’s Law and its implications, we spoke with [**Alex Reed Name**], a [**guest Title/Expertise**] with [**Alex Reed Affiliation**].



**Archyde:** thank you for joining us today. Can you elaborate on the meaning of Brianna’s Law and how it will impact boaters in New York State?



**Alex Reed:** Brianna’s Law is a vital step towards making our waterways safer for everyone. By mandating boating safety education for all operators,we equip individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate our waters responsibly. This includes understanding navigation rules, safe boating practices, and how to respond effectively in emergency situations.



**Archyde:** Could you elaborate on the content covered in the state-approved boating safety courses?



**Alex Reed:** the courses cover a comprehensive range of topics, including boating regulations, navigational rules, safe operation techniques, handling emergencies, and the responsible use of alcohol and drugs while boating.



**Archyde:** What are some of the challenges you anticipate in implementing brianna’s Law and how are these being addressed?





**Alex Reed:** One challenge is ensuring widespread awareness and accessibility to the boating safety courses. The New York State Parks Education Program is working closely with boating organizations and marinas to promote the requirement and offer convenient course options, including online and in-person formats. [[1](https://www.newyorkalmanack.com/2024/04/boater-safety-course-required-for-all-boat-operators-starting-in-2025/)]



**Archyde:** what message would you like to convey to boaters in New York State as we approach the implementation of this new law?



**Alex Reed:** Boaters should see this as an prospect to enhance their knowledge and skills, ultimately leading to a safer and more enjoyable experience for everyone on the water. Education is key to preventing accidents and promoting responsible boating practices.





**(Archyde)** We thank [**Alex Reed Name**] for sharing their valuable insights on this vital topic. For more facts on Brianna’s Law and approved boating safety courses, please visit the New York State Parks Education Program website.