Nsbc will implement the new device acceptance, level 50 campaign to educate regulators, manufacturers, and the public about new life jacket standards following the 2025 USCG harmonization rule

The National Safe Boating Council Inc. received a $150,000 Cooperative Agreement from the U.S. Coast Guard under the National Nonprofit Organization Recreational Boating Safety Grant Program (CFDA 97.135), awarded October 1, 2025, with completion targeted for September 30, 2026. The award funds implementation of the New Device Acceptance, Level 50 Campaign, a comprehensive educational initiative designed to promote stakeholder understanding and acceptance of updated life jacket standards resulting from the 2025 U.S. Coast Guard Harmonization Rule. The campaign will target regulators, manufacturers, and the general public through multiple delivery mechanisms.

The Council will develop and distribute educational toolkits, produce public service announcements, and execute paid advertising to increase compliance with and cultural acceptance of mandatory Level 50 life jacket wear requirements. By expanding awareness and acceptance of these new life jacket standards, the initiative aims to reduce boating-related fatalities and improve proper device utilization among recreational boaters. This award reflects the Coast Guard's ongoing investment in the National Safe Boating Council's role as a trusted implementer of evidence-based boating safety awareness campaigns at the national level.

The campaign will promote acceptance of level 50 life jackets through educational toolkits, public service announcements, and paid advertising. By increasing compliance and cultural acceptance of mandatory wear, this initiative will reduce fatalities and ensure proper use of these devices.