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Perry the US CG recommendations should be followed. Also you can contact your local USPS (US Power Squadron) as the will do VSC (Vessel Safety Checks) for free and tell you what isn't up to par if needed.
You said upstate NY check http://www.usps.org/d_stuff/dist.html/dist.html I don't know if you're in District 6 or District 2 but the have squadrons in many cities in those areas.
Give them a call and tell them you want a VSC (your boat does not need to be in the water) and they'll be happy to have a USCG certified volunteer do it.
Safe and happy boating