I don't see it in the DNR boating regs either. I was going by what the DNR LEO told us.
My question is why would you spend $100+ to buy one comfortable to wear if you have no intention of wearing it. Might as well get one for $15 if you not going to wear it. I know some folks say they wear it when they running the outboard, but I have not been able to determine when I might fall overboard and need it so I wear it all the time.