Dylan's Law mandates that information regarding United States Coast Guard approved personal flotation devices (PFDs) be included in various contexts related to vessel registration and boating safety. Specifically, the bill amends the application process for vessel registration with the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission to require applicants to provide information about the types of PFDs, including when each type is required and recommended under state and federal laws. Applicants must acknowledge receipt of this information through a signature or electronic confirmation. Additionally, the Chief Administrator of the Motor Vehicle Commission is tasked with consulting relevant authorities to ensure the accuracy of the information provided.

The bill also enhances the requirements for approved boating safety courses by mandating comprehensive instruction on PFDs, and it requires businesses selling or renting personal watercraft to provide informational materials about PFDs at the point of sale or rental. Customers must acknowledge that they have read this information, and businesses must offer the option to purchase or rent a Type I PFD, which provides the highest level of buoyancy. This legislation aims to improve safety awareness and ensure that individuals are informed about the critical differences between life jacket types, particularly in light of tragic incidents like the death of Dylan Geller, who suffered a seizure while in the water.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 12:7-34.39, 12:7-60