 A new carbon monoxide law aimed at saving boaters went into effect this week. It's called Sophia's Law. It is named after seven-year-old Sophia Bachelor, who died tragically from carbon monoxide poisoning while on her family's boat. Sophia's Law was designed to protect boaters from the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning and to prevent future tragedies from occurring again. The new law makes Minnesota the first state in the nation to require carbon monoxide detectors and warning stickers on certain boats. Under the new law, functioning marine-grade carbon monoxide detectors must be installed in recreational motor boats with a designated sleeping accommodation, a galley area with a sink, and a toilet compartment. For all gasoline-powered motor boats with an enclosed occupancy compartment, three carbon monoxide warning stickers are required. The stickers must be attached at the helm, the enclosed occupancy space, and the stern. Warning stickers and information about the dangers of carbon monoxide while boating were mailed to registered boat owners in the spring of 2017. Stickers can also be found at all Minnesota deputy registrars and many marinas and marine dealers. If you enjoyed this segment of Lakeland News, please consider making a tax-deductible contribution to Lakeland PBS.