If you own a boat under 26' Coast Gaurd has a new law for you;

[stripernut]

U.S. Coast Guard Announces New Law Requiring Use of Engine Cut-off Switches
WASHINGTON – Operators of recreational vessels less than 26 feet in length will be required to use an engine cut-off switch (ECOS) and associated ECOS link (ECOSL) as of April 1, 2021, as the U.S. Coast Guard implements a law passed by Congress.

Many will have this switch already, many don't...

[Oldbear]

If that refers to the curly cord dead man switch that's not what I want to hear. My 15 hp Johnson I bought used had a toggle switch on it when I got it.

[stripernut]

I ordered a kill switch last night as soon as I saw the report... Under $20 bucks. I don't like it, but there are a lot of runaway boats and this will cut down on them.

[stripernut]

I don't know how many, but if you want to kill some time on youtube, there are lots of them that have been caught on film...

[rgfixit]

If you read the rule it does not require a retrofit to existing vessels. It only requires dealers and manufacturers to install them on equipment they sell or produce.
https://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/text/46/4312

Unless I’m missing something.

Rg

[stripernut]

^^^^^ 2018
vvvvvvv2021
The ECOS and ECOSL prevent runaway vessels and the threats they pose. The ECOSL attaches the vessel operator to a switch that shuts off the engine if the operator is displaced from the helm. The ECOSL is usually a lanyard-style cord that attaches to an ECOS either in close proximity to the helm or on the outboard motor itself if the vessel is operated by a tiller. When enough tension is applied, the ECOSL disengages from the ECOS and the motor is automatically shut down. Wireless ECOS have recently been developed and are also approved for use. These devices use an electronic “fob” that is carried by the operator and senses when it is submerged in water, activating the ECOS and turning the engine off. Wireless devices are available on the aftermarket and are beginning to become available as manufacturer-installed options.

 

Each year the Coast Guard receives reports of recreational vessel operators who fall or are suddenly and unexpectedly thrown out of their boat. These events have led to injuries and deaths. During these incidents the boat continues to operate with no one in control of the vessel, leaving the operator stranded in the water as the boat continues on course, or the boat begins to circle the person in the water eventually striking them, often with the propeller. These dangerous runaway vessel situations put the ejected operator, other users of the waterway, and marine law enforcement officers and other first responders in serious danger.

 

Section 503 of the Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2018 required manufacturers of covered recreational boats (less than 26 feet in length, with an engine capable of 115 lbs. of static thrust) to equip the vessel with an ECOS installed as of December 2019. Owners of recreational vessels produced after December 2019 are required to maintain the ECOS on their vessel in a serviceable condition. It is recommended that recreational vessel owners regularly check their existing ECOS system to ensure it works, following manufacturer’s instructions.

 

Section 8316 of the National Defense Authorization Act of 2021 requires individuals operating covered recreational vessels (less than 26 feet in length, with an engine capable of 115 lbs. of static thrust; 3 HP or more) to use ECOS “links.” Using the ECOSL is required only when the primary helm is not within an enclosed cabin, and when the boat is operating on plane or above displacement speed. Common situations where ECOSL use would not be required include docking/trailering, trolling and operating in no-wake zones. 

 

The Coast Guard believes that the overwhelming majority of recreational vessels produced for decades have had an ECOS installed, so this new use requirement simply obligates recreational vessel operators to use critical safety equipment already present on their boat.

 

Seven states currently have ECOS use laws for traditional recreational vessels, and 44 states have ECOS use laws for personal watercraft (PWC).

 

Boaters are encouraged to check the U.S. Coast Guard website for additional information on this new use requirement and other safety regulations and recommendations: https://uscgboating.org/recreational-boaters/Engine-Cut-Off-Switch-FAQ.php

[rgfixit]

So I still don’t see where there is any requirement to retrofit an existing motor, like my 1987 Johnson, with a cut off switch. It only says if it’s equipped with one, then I have to use it. My outboard was never equipped with one.

“The Coast Guard believes that the overwhelming majority of recreational vessels produced for decades have had an ECOS installed, so this new use requirement simply obligates recreational vessel operators to use critical safety equipment already present on their boat.”

Am I still missing something?

Rg

[swnoel]

They won't work unless the lanyard is attached to the operator.

[stripernut]

I could be wrong but I think that the first paragraph is the one that will count... Even if you are right I can see the arguments with the CG and they will end your trip, even when you are right and they are wrong... Been there, done that... (with Game Wardens).

[lowaccord66]

I'm in the clear and I actually use mine a lot.  Champlain is bumpy where I fish!

[stripernut]

Showing up today, delivered to my door for under $12 (there are cheaper ones); Sea Dog 420488-1 Kill Switch with Lanyard. Should be able to install it in about half-hour (with a limited amount of swearing)... Hardly what I would call an "Undue Burden"... I am sure, like most bureaucracies, that this has been in the works longer than the current "tree Hugger" administration. Like early seat belts, the car did not know that you are not wearing it, it is up to you to wear or not get caught, not wearing it when you are supposed to...

[hunts2long]

In 70+ years I have seen only 1 run-away. I use my Lanyard all the time since I got the tiller boat...h2l

[taxid]

I never use my lanyard. I hate the thing.

[lowaccord66]

im pretty sure "a lot" doesnt count. lol

will be watching this for the retrofit question.  i lean towards not.  it would put undue burden on the public to comply. imo

and how does a lanyard know its attached to the operator?

this could also be a underhanded way to remove old motors from waterways for the tree hugger agenda? reaching lol

It doesn't matter.  If you fish around us you'd know stuff like this is unenforceable.  Heck 99% of the time we don't get boarded by the coast guard even when they are always out patrolling.  Certainly no epo's looking either. 

[eiderz]

One more nanny rule. Not gonna do it.