MONTPELIER — Vermont game wardens and state police are urging boaters to take a boater education course ahead of the upcoming season due to changes in New York state law that will affect Vermonters on Lake Champlain.
New York’s “Brianna’s Law” will require all operators of motorized vessels, including personal watercraft, to obtain and carry a boating safety certificate beginning January 1.
The law, which previously was being phased in by age, will apply to all Vermonters venturing onto New York waterways, including shared waters like Lake Champlain.
Operators of non-motorized boats such as canoes, kayaks and stand-up paddleboards are exempt from the certificate requirement but are still encouraged to take a boating safety course.
New York State recognizes boating safety certificates from other states, including Vermont, that meet National Association of State Boating Law Administrators standards.
Vermont currently requires certificates only for boaters born after January 1, 1974, but recommends them for everyone.
Boater education courses are available both online and in-person through Vermont’s boating safety program.
Officials emphasize that boat owners and operators are responsible for their own safety and the safety of their passengers.
