Mass Bill Would Require Adult Lifejacket Use

The Massachusetts State Legislature is considering a bill tomorrow, April 5, that will require everyone, including adults, to wear lifejackets on boats under 20 feet long while in operation.

Currently in Massachusetts, life jackets must be onboard all boats, and worn by kids under 12, and by all persons who are waterskiing, on personal watercraft, or in canoe/kayaks in the winter. As it is currently written, House Bill 646 will require everyone on boats less than 20 feet to wear life jackets year-round.

Boaters wishing to comment on the bill should contact their state Representative today. Refer to House Bill 646. This bill is being heard by the Joint Committee on Public Safety and Homeland Security on Tuesday, April 5, at 1:00 p.m.

For more information:

Bill language: Massachusetts House Bill 646

For Representative contact information:

My Election Information

Representative Viriato Manuel deMacedo (Bill Sponsor)

Representative Shelia C. Harrington (Bill Sponsor)

Current  Requirements in MA:

It’s the Law: Required Equipment

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