"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 boating safety education by requiring approved boat safety courses to include comprehensive instruction on PFDs, similar to the information required in the registration process. Furthermore, businesses selling or renting personal watercraft must provide customers with informational materials about PFDs at the point of sale or rental and ensure that customers acknowledge receipt of this information. They are also required to 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 education regarding life jackets, particularly in light of tragic incidents like the death of Dylan Geller, who suffered a seizure while in the water while wearing a Type III life jacket.

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