Ahead of Labor Day Weekend, Governor Hochul Signs Legislation to Keep New Yorkers Safe in the Water

 

S.9748/A.10334 Extends Temporary Commission To Prevent Childhood Drowning

S.5815A/A.6205 Allows the Department of Health To Promote Public Awareness of the Dangers of Fatal and Non-Fatal Drowning

S.7731A/A.9888C Allows State Fire Prevention and Building Code Council Flexibility When Creating Standards Related to Latching Mechanisms on Pool Enclosures

Ahead of Labor Day weekend, Governor Kathy Hochul signed three pieces of legislation related to strengthening public safety regarding pools and swimming. Legislation S.9748/A.10334 extends the temporary Commission to Prevent Childhood Drowning for another year. S.5815A/A.6205 relates to education on the dangers of fatal and non-fatal drowning. Legislation S.7731A/A.988C requires pool enclosure release mechanism standards be developed by the State fire prevention and building code council based on internationally recognized standards.

“Losing a loved one to drowning is something no one should have to experience, so in addition to our increased investment to expand swimming instructions, we’re taking every measure possible to save lives and prevent tragedies,” Governor Hochul said. “Education and proper safety standards are vital to keeping New York’s swimmers safe and the pieces of legislation signed today will go a long way in addressing these issues.”

Legislation S.9748/A.10334 extends the Commission to Prevent Childhood Drowning another year in New York State to continue its work evaluating and developing programs to properly educate and instruct children on water safety and how to swim.

Legislation S.5815A/A.6205 allows the Department of Health to conduct education and outreach programs promoting public awareness of the dangers of fatal and non-fatal drowning.

Legislation S.7731A/A.9888C authorizes the New York State fire prevention and building code council to align the current New York State statutory provisions governing swimming pool enclosure gates with language from the International Swimming Pool and Spa Code and the American Society for Testing and Materials Code.