New Law Demands Use of Boat Engine Cutoff Switches

As of April 1, 2021, a new law passed by Congress requires operators of recreational vessels less than 26 feet in length to use an engine cutoff switch (ECOS), commonly known as a kill switch, and the associated link (ECOSL), commonly known as a kill-switch lanyard, in order to prevent runaway vessels and the threats they pose.

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 operator is displaced from the helm, the lanyard disengages from the ECOS, shutting off the engine.

Wireless ECOS have also been approved for use. These devices use an electronic fob carried by the operator that senses when it is submerged in water, activating the ECOS and turning the engine off.

The US Coast Guard, which every year receives numerous reports of recreational-vessel operators who fall or are thrown out of their boats, leading to serious injuries and deaths, has been tasked with implementing the new law.

During these incidents, the boat continues to run with no one in control.

Propeller torque causes many runaway boats to begin circling, often striking the person in the water, and putting the ejected operator as well as other waterway users in serious danger, including marine law enforcement officers and other first responders.

Section 503 of the Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2018 required manufacturers of covered recreational boats less than 26 feet in length, powered by an engine of 3 hp or more, to equip boats with an ECOS installed as of December 2019. Owners of recreational vessels produced after December 2019 are required to maintain the ECOS on their boats in a serviceable condition.

Section 8316 of the National Defense Authorization Act of 2021 now requires persons operating covered recreational vessels (less than 26 feet in length, with an engine of 3 hp or more) to use ECOS links when the primary helm is not within an enclosed cabin, and when the boat is on plane or above displacement speed. Common situations where use of an ECOSL is not required include docking, trailering, trolling, and operating in no-wake zones. For additional information, visit uscgboating.org/ recreational-boaters/engine-cut- Offswitch-faq.php

Engine cutoff switches must now be used on covered recreational boats under 26 feet, at planing speed or above.