Alabama · Through Act 2026-611

Ala. Code § 33-5-72: Engine Cut-Off Switch and Engine Cut-Off Switch Link.

(a) As used in this section, the following terms have the following meanings:
(1) COVERED RECREATIONAL VESSEL. A recreational vessel that meets both of the following requirements:
a. Measures less than 26 feet in overall length.
b. Is capable of developing 115 pounds or more of static thrust.
(2) PROPULSION MACHINERY. A self-contained propulsion system, including, but not limited to, inboard engines, outboard motors, and sterndrive engines.
(3) STATIC THRUST. The forward or backward thrust developed by propulsion machinery while stationary.
(b) A manufacturer, distributor, or dealer that installs propulsion machinery and associated starting controls on a covered recreational vessel shall equip the vessel with an engine cut-off switch and an engine cut-off switch link that meet American Boat and Yacht Council Standard A-33, as in effect on the date of the enactment of the Frank LoBiondo Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2018.
(c)(1) An individual operating a covered recreational vessel shall use an engine cut-off switch link while operating on plane or above displacement speed.
(2) The requirements of subdivision (1) do not apply under either of the following conditions:
a. The main helm of the covered recreational vessel is installed within an enclosed cabin.
b. The covered recreational vessel does not have an engine cut-off switch and is not required to have one under subsection (b).
(d) Any person who violates this section shall be guilty of a boating violation.

Where this section sits in the code

Title 33 Navigation and Watercourses.
Chapter 5 Registration and Operation of Vessels.
Article 2 Boating Safety Reform.

(a) As used in this section, the following terms have the following meanings:

(1) COVERED RECREATIONAL VESSEL. A recreational vessel that meets both of the following requirements:

a. Measures less than 26 feet in overall length.

b. Is capable of developing 115 pounds or more of static thrust.

(2) PROPULSION MACHINERY. A self-contained propulsion system, including, but not limited to, inboard engines, outboard motors, and sterndrive engines.

(3) STATIC THRUST. The forward or backward thrust developed by propulsion machinery while stationary.

(b) A manufacturer, distributor, or dealer that installs propulsion machinery and associated starting controls on a covered recreational vessel shall equip the vessel with an engine cut-off switch and an engine cut-off switch link that meet American Boat and Yacht Council Standard A-33, as in effect on the date of the enactment of the Frank LoBiondo Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2018.

(c)(1) An individual operating a covered recreational vessel shall use an engine cut-off switch link while operating on plane or above displacement speed.

(2) The requirements of subdivision (1) do not apply under either of the following conditions:

a. The main helm of the covered recreational vessel is installed within an enclosed cabin.

b. The covered recreational vessel does not have an engine cut-off switch and is not required to have one under subsection (b).

(d) Any person who violates this section shall be guilty of a boating violation.

Collected 2026-09-03T14:01:51Z. Source file · JSON

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