Merski’s bill to update electric watercraft safety rules wins committee approval
Rep. Robert Merski September 30, 2025 | 10:29 AM
HARRISBURG, Sept. 30 – State Rep. Bob Merski, D-Erie, announced today that his bill, H.B. 1418, has cleared the Pennsylvania House Game and Fisheries Committee. Merski said the legislation is a necessary update to protect Pennsylvanians as new electric-powered personal watercraft increasingly appear on the commonwealth’s waters.
House Bill 1418 would modernize boating safety requirements for emerging motorized personal watercraft, such as eFoils and jetboards, following the U.S. Coast Guard’s determination that these devices meet the federal definition of personal watercraft. The bill aligns state law with federal guidance by updating provisions for registration, boating safety education certificates, life jacket requirements and other safety standards, while explicitly excluding motorized kayaks, canoes and vessels where the operator sits or stands within the hull.
“The growing market of electric-powered watercraft gives Pennsylvanians new ways to enjoy our lakes and rivers, but it also requires sensible, updated safety rules,” Merski said. “This bill brings our laws into alignment with federal standards and ensures that all operators understand registration and safety obligations so we can keep waterways safe for everyone.”
Merski said conversations with the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission, boating safety experts, law enforcement and recreational users informed the bill’s provisions.
“The commission’s recommendation helped shape practical changes that protect users while preserving access to outdoor recreation,” he said.
The bill now heads to the full House for consideration.