Senate Bill No. 371 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 33 CFR 175.13, as amended.

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