Maryland lawmakers support Matthew's Law for carbon monoxide warning labels on boats

During a recent session of the Maryland General Assembly's Environment and Transportation Committee, lawmakers discussed House Bill 1322, also known as "Matthew's Law," which aims to enhance safety for boaters by requiring carbon monoxide warning labels on gasoline-powered vessels manufactured after July 31, 2007. The bill was introduced by Chair Pena-Melnick, who emphasized the importance of addressing the dangers of carbon monoxide, a colorless and odorless gas that can be deadly.

The bill's significance was underscored by the emotional testimony of Alida Ball, who shared the tragic story of her son, Matthew Thomas McHale, who died from carbon monoxide poisoning while working on a boat in 2016. Ball recounted how her son experienced symptoms of poisoning, including dizziness, before losing consciousness. She expressed her hope that the bill would prevent similar tragedies by raising awareness about the dangers of carbon monoxide among boaters.

Support for the bill has been broad, with endorsements from various stakeholders, including the Maryland Department of Natural Resources and the Marine Trades Association of Maryland. The department has committed to disseminating information about the dangers of carbon monoxide through its website and social media, as well as coordinating with boat dealers to ensure that the warning labels are distributed effectively.

The cost of the warning labels is minimal, with prices ranging from $9.99 to $25, and many fire departments offer them for free. The bill is designed to be fiscally responsible, with no significant financial implications for the state.

As the committee deliberates on House Bill 1322, the focus remains on its potential to save lives and enhance safety for Maryland's boating community. The committee's decision will be crucial in determining whether this legislation, inspired by a personal tragedy, will become law and help prevent future incidents on the water.