However, some states are moving towards licensing boaters, much in the same way drivers are licensed. However, the state licensing and USCG licensing would still be separate and a USCG license would still be required if you carry passengers for hire.
Electricity on most larger cruising sailboats is handled via a house bank of batteries. The batteries are charged by one of several means: an alternator running off the boat's engine, solar panels, a wind generator, a seperate generator, or via an AC connection when at the dock.
You can have a small refrigerator, DVD player, stereo, etc. on a sailboat.
Unless you are boating only on an inland lake, I would highly recommend you get a copy of the International and Inland Regulations for Avoiding Collision at Sea or
COLREGS. BTW, generally a good idea to have them aboard in any case, and required by law in the US for boats over a certain size.
While there may be state-specific laws, the COLREGS will cover you and give you a good idea of most of what is necessary for safe boating.