CHAPTER 270 SUPERVISION OF NAVIGATION; REGISTRATION OF BOATS AND MOTORS; COMMON CARRIERS BY WATER
Operation of Boats
Section 270:30-d
270:30-d Powerboat Engine Cut-Off Switch. –
I. (a) "Engine cut-off switch (ECOS)" means a system of lanyards, electronic switches, fobs, or similar devices manufactured specifically for the purpose of disabling propulsion or a vessel engine when the operator is unexpectedly displaced from the vessel's helm.
(b) "Headway speed" means the slowest speed that a boat can be operated and maintain steerage way.
(c) "Enclosed cabin" means a space on board a vessel that is surrounded by bulkheads and covered by a roof.
II. No person shall operate a powerboat less than 26 feet long, or outboard engine with greater than 115 pounds of thrust or 3 horsepower, at greater than headway speed unless the person is wearing an ECOS.
III. Paragraph II shall not apply if:
(a) The main helm of the vessel is installed within an enclosed cabin.
(b) The vessel or outboard engine was manufactured prior to 2020 and was not equipped with an ECOS.