Brianna’s Law brings boating changes 

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NEW YORK- Brianna’s Law, named after Brianna Lieneck, an 11-year-old girl from Long Island who was killed in a boating accident in 2005 takes effect this year, requiring new boater safety training in New York.  Brianna’s Law phases in mandatory completion of a New York State Safe Boating Course for all persons who operate motorized vessels.  Failure to comply with this law could result in a fine between $100 and $250.

Any person wishing to operate a vessel who was born on or after January 1, 1983 will need a Boating Safety Certificate as of 2023.  Those born on or after January 1, 1978 will need a Boating Safety Certificate beginning in 2024.  All operators of motorized vessels, regardless of their age, will need a Boating Safety Certificate beginning in 2025.  

Students must be at least 10 years of age to participate in both classroom or online courses.

Those who pass the course will be issued a boating card and required to have it on their person when on the water.  Failure to do so could result in a fine between $100 and $250, depending on the circumstances.

An alternative to carrying the boating card is to go to the state Department of Motor Vehicles and have it noted on your driver’s license that you have successfully completed the course.  The cost of these courses vary depending on the host agency.

The classes, both in-person and online, take approximately eight hours, which includes the final test. 




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