Louisiana proposes changes to boating safety rules

Louisiana is proposing updates to its boating safety rules that would align state requirements with federal navigation laws and U.S. Coast Guard guidance. Under the proposal, operators of motorboats under 26 feet with an engine cut-off switch would need the lanyard/link attached to the operator, their clothing, or—if worn—the personal flotation device while the boat is on plane or at speeds above displacement. Children 16 and younger on Class A/Class 1 motorboats would have to wear Coast Guard-approved life jackets underway, with an exception for certain commercial fishing operations. Water sports participants must wear wearable PFDs and operators would not be able to tow riders without the required flotation. The rules also address throwable devices for boats 16 feet or longer and create a process to assign state hull identification numbers for eligible older vessels.