How to resolve AdBlock issue? Take the class this winter to be ready for the boating season.
SARATOGA SPRINGS — Recently passed “Brianna’s Law” requires all operators of motorized vessels to have a Boating Safety Certificate.
Brianna's Law is a comprehensive boater education law that requires all power boaters, including those operating sailing vessels with auxiliary power, to complete a boating safety course. It was signed into law by Governor Cuomo on August 6, 2019 and went into effect January 1, 2020.
Brianna’s Law expands the requirements in previous NYS law for boating safety certificates to eventually include ALL operators of motorized vessels. Under the previous law, owners of new boats had a 120-day grace period from the date of purchase to obtain a safe boating certificate. This accommodation has been eliminated under Brianna’s Law. Additionally, the law previously allowed for non-certified persons to operate a boat if someone with a certificate was in the boat. This no longer applies, so everyone operating the vessel must have a certificate.
Brianna’s Law compliance timeline is staggered. Those born on or after January 1, 1993 will need a Boating Safety Certificate when operating a motorized vessel in 2020. For those born on or after January 1, 1988, the deadline is 2022. Those born after January 1, 1983 need a Certificate by 2023 and those born on or after January 1, 1978 by 2024. However, all operators of motorized vessels, regardless of age, will need a Boating Safety Certificate by January 1, 2025.
Bob Rivers is a National Boating Safety Council and NYS Marine Services Bureau Certified Instructor. Mr. Rivers will be offering the required 8-hour NYS training and exam leading to issuance of a NYS Boating Certificate.
There are several opportunities to take the class this winter to be ready for the boating season. This one-day class is being offered on Saturday, Jan. 25, 2020, Saturday, Feb. 8, 2020, and Saturday, March 7, 2020. All classes are to be held at the Embassy Suites conveniently located in Congress Plaza in Saratoga Springs and run from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Classes are open to anyone ten years or older interested in becoming a safer boater by learning basic safety, boat operation, “rules of the road” and boat trailering.
Class cost is $50 per person. For more information about the class contact Bob Rivers at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 518-330-1630. For more information about Brianna’s Law visit the website Parks.NY.Gov.
