House Bill No. 5273 mandates that all children under the age of twelve must wear a personal flotation device while on any public dock, wharf, or pier in the state, effective October 1, 2026. This requirement is established regardless of any existing special acts, municipal charters, or home rule ordinances. The term "personal flotation device" is defined in accordance with federal regulations (33 CFR 175.13).

The bill is expected to incur minimal costs, estimated at up to $10,000 in fiscal year 2027, primarily for the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) to purchase additional flotation devices and create new signage to inform the public about this requirement. There are no anticipated municipal impacts, and future costs may arise from the replacement of flotation devices.