This bill mandates that information regarding United States Coast Guard approved personal flotation devices (PFDs), commonly known as life jackets, be provided under specific circumstances. It amends current law to require that the application for vessel registration with the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission includes details about the types of PFDs, including when each type is required and when their use is recommended. Applicants must acknowledge receipt of this information by signing or providing electronic confirmation. The Chief Administrator of the Motor Vehicle Commission is tasked with consulting relevant authorities to ensure the accuracy of the information included in the application.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that approved boating safety courses must include comprehensive instruction on PFDs, and individuals selling or renting personal watercraft must provide informational materials about these devices at the point of sale or rental. Purchasers or renters must acknowledge that they have read this information. Furthermore, sellers or renters are required to offer the option to purchase or rent a Type I PFD, which provides the highest level of buoyancy. The bill aims to enhance safety on the water by ensuring that individuals are well-informed about the critical differences between life jacket types, particularly in light of tragic incidents involving watercraft operators. The sponsor intends to designate this bill as "Dylan's Law" in memory of a young individual who lost his life due to inadequate safety measures.

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