Date: Thursday, Sept. 30, 1999 |
For Immediate Release |
Boaters who want to get the jump on boating safety certification requirements are signing up for safe boating courses across the state. "We've received numerous calls from people who simply want to get this done now and not wait - we think that's a great idea," said Marty Law, education coordinator for the Oregon State Marine Board.
Volunteers with the U.S. Power Squadrons and the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary are gearing up for fall classes. Classes range from basic introductory courses to more intense courses which cover ocean navigation and other advanced skills.
"There is still some confusion out there about when Mandatory Boater Education certification will be required," said Law. "First, no certificates will be required until after January 2001. Second, we have a generous phase-in period through the end of the decade so we can divide the number of boaters into manageable groups."
Boaters who can show they have taken a course approved by the National Association of Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA) will meet the requirements of the new law, which was passed by the state legislature last spring and signed by Governor Kitzhaber in August. Courses taught by U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary and U.S. Power Squadron, as well as the Marine Board's home study course, are NASBLA approved. "If you can show us you've taken a NASBLA approved course, you've met the requirement. That is all that is needed to get your certification when the time comes," said Law.
Once the phase-in is complete, certification will be required for all boaters operating power boats of more than 10 horsepower, and all boaters age 12-15 operating power boats of any horsepower.
For information on available classes, check the Marine Board web site at www.osmb.state.or.us, call the Marine Board at (503) 378-8587, or call 800-336-BOAT for U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary and U.S. Power Squadron listings.
