Illinois amended its Engine Cut Off Switch (ECOS) law 625 ILCS 45/4-11 (b) to agree with Federal law, 46 U.S. Code § 4312. Illinois law now reads "while the motorboat is operating on plane or above displacement speed." That is a change from the previous law which required ECOS at all times. The "at all times" rule was problematic when inadvertent engine cut off occorred during low speed maneuvering, such as when docking, or in a lock, when thrust was needed, but distractions could result in an inadvertant lanyard pull.
------------------------------
Capt. David Brezina
Past Secretary
Chicago Harbor Safety Comm
------------------------------