Responding to a boating fatality in New York, two similar bills have been introduced in the House of Representatives and Senate that would require a maximum passenger capacity placard be posted on recreational boats.

On Aug. 1, Sen. Charles Schumer (D-NY) introduced S. 2774, the Boating Capacity Standards Act. The bill gives the U.S. Coast Guard 180 days to establish a passenger capacity — rated in both number of passengers and pounds — for all recreational boats, and would likewise require boat manufactures to mount the placard in a prominent place. The bill has no cosponsors and has been referred to the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation.

On May 9, Rep. Steve Israel (D-NY) introduced H.R. 4642, the Boating Occupancy and Teaching Safety Act. The bill would require USCG to develop occupancy standards in 180 days for recreational boats between 20 and 45 feet in overall length. The bill has no cosponsors and has been referred to the House subcommittee on Fisheries, Wildlife, Oceans and Insular Affairs.

No action is expected on either bill, and MRAA opposes both.