Law to require engine cutoff device

Published on February 5th, 2021

State Representative Fiona McFarland announced on February 4 that she will be introducing legislation following a boating accident that killed 10-year-old Ethan Isaacs on November 21, 2020.

Isaacs was struck by an unmanned boat after its operator lost his footing and fell. Two other juveniles were injured during the incident which took place during an organized youth sailing practice in Sarasota, FL.

“Ethan’s Law” would require operators of motorboats under 26 feet to wear an engine safety cutoff device, which automatically shuts off the engine if the operator is thrown overboard. Seven other states currently have similar laws in place, and the US Coast Guard will adopt the same rule in 2021. – Full report