COMDTINST 16751.1 — National Recreational Boating Safety (rbs) Program

COMDTINST 16751.1 governs execution of the National Recreational Boating Safety Program and Coast Guard responsibilities established by statute and regulations.

Search COMDTINST 16751.1

  • Publication number: COMDTINST 16751.1
  • Title: NATIONAL RECREATIONAL BOATING SAFETY (RBS) PROGRAM
  • Date: 3/4/2025
  • Proponent: CG-BSX-2

View COMDTINST 16751.1 on armypubs.army.mil


It covers state participation, boating education, assistance and enforcement, program coordination, grant funding, regulations, and award criteria. It requires specified Coast Guard personnel and Coast Guard Auxiliarists to comply with its policies and provides administrative guidance for National and District programs.

Applies to: All District Commanders, Coast Guard Sector Commanders, Coast Guard unit commanders, commanding officers, officers-in-charge, deputy/assistant commandants, chief of headquarter directorates, and Coast Guard Auxiliarists must comply with the policies contained.

Topics covered

  • National Recreational Boating Safety Program
  • Boating education and enforcement
  • State grant funding
  • Sport Fish Restoration and Boating Trust Fund
  • Coast Guard recreational boating roles
  • Recreational boating program coordination
  • Sector RBS awards

Questions and answers

Who must comply with COMDTINST 16751.1?

All District Commanders, Coast Guard Sector Commanders, Coast Guard unit commanders, commanding officers, officers-in-charge, deputy/assistant commandants, chief of headquarter directorates, and Coast Guard Auxiliarists must comply with the policies contained. (paragraph 2)

What does the National RBS Program encourage from states?

The National RBS Program encourages greater State (hereafter, “State” refers to the 50 United States, the District of Colombia, and / or the Territories) participation and uniformity in boating safety efforts. (paragraph 5)

What activities are states expected to assume under the National RBS Program?

The program is based on States assuming the greater share of boating education, assistance, and enforcement activities. (paragraph 5)

What coordination is required to execute the National RBS Program?

Effective execution of the National RBS program also requires coordination and unity of effort between Coast Guard elements of Prevention, Response, and Public Affairs; the Coast Guard Auxiliary; and the District Recreational Boating Program (RBP) Specialist. (paragraph 5)

What must nominations for the Sector award include?

Nominations must include a one-page narrative of the Sector’s outstanding RBS performance and achievements during the period of 1 January to 31 December of the previous year. (paragraph 4)

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