A bill to amend the Federal Boat Safety Act to 1971 to extend the authorization of appropriations for financial assistance for State boating safety programs beyond fiscal year 1976.

Extends from 18 to 24 months the period which the Secretary of the Department in which the Coast Guard is operating may interpose, at his discretion, between the date of issuance of a boating safety standard requiring major changes in the boat manufacturing industry and the effective date of such safety standard.

Authorizes the Secretary to conduct research, testing, and development necessary to carry out the purposes of the Federal Boat Safety Act.

Extends through fiscal year 1978 the allocation of Federal funds to State boating safety programs.

Authorizes through fiscal year 1978 the appropriation of funds for Federal assistance to State boating safety programs.