U.S. Code of Federal Regulations
Regulations most recently checked for updates: Oct 07, 2025
The States are exempted from preemption by Federal regulations when establishing, continuing in effect, or enforcing State laws and regulations on the wearing or the carriage of personal flotation devices directly related to the following subject areas within the jurisdictional boundaries of the State:
(a) Children on board any vessel;
(b) Operating a canoe or kayak;
(c) Operating a sailboard; and
(d) Operating a personal watercraft.