Georgia 2023-2024 Regular Session

Georgia Senate Bill SB107

Introduced
2/7/23  
Refer
2/8/23  
Introduced
2/7/23  
Report Pass
2/22/23  
Refer
2/8/23  
Engrossed
3/1/23  
Report Pass
2/22/23  
Report Pass
3/15/23  
Engrossed
3/1/23  
Enrolled
4/5/23  
Report Pass
3/15/23  
Chaptered
5/3/23  
Enrolled
4/5/23  
Chaptered
5/3/23  

Caption

"Izzy's Law"; Depart. of Public Health shall develop and make available for download from its internet website a model aquatic safety plan based on national standards for private swim instructors; provide

Impact

The introduction of Izzy's Law is expected to significantly influence state laws regarding swimming instruction. By setting forth specific requirements for safety protocols, the bill aims to create a baseline for protecting individuals, particularly children, during swimming activities. The legislation may lead to improved training for private instructors and could potentially reduce drownings associated with inadequate safety measures. It encourages community awareness and preparedness in aquatic environments, aligning with public health objectives.

Summary

Senate Bill 107, known as 'Izzy's Law', aims to enhance swimming safety standards in Georgia by requiring private swim instructors to adopt an aquatic safety plan. This legislation mandates the Department of Public Health to develop and make available a model aquatic safety plan that meets national standards by January 1, 2024. Private swim instructors will then have to implement these standards or create their own plans that comply with the state's requirements. The goal is to provide a solid framework to ensure safety during swimming lessons and to reduce the risk of drowning incidents.

Sentiment

The sentiment towards SB107 appears largely supportive, particularly among public health advocates and organizations focused on safety in aquatic environments. Many stakeholders recognize the necessity of structured safety guidelines for swim instructors. However, there may be some concern regarding the feasibility for small, independent instructors to create or adopt such safety plans, particularly regarding costs or resources. Overall, the bill is viewed positively as a proactive step towards enhancing public safety in swimming.

Contention

Notable points of contention around the bill include discussions on the practical implications for private swim instructors, especially those who operate independently. While the intent is to improve safety, there are inquiries about how effectively these instructors can comply with the proposed aquatic safety plans, particularly in terms of accessing resources and information necessary for implementation. Additionally, some may raise concerns regarding the enforcement of these standards and whether the Department of Public Health can adequately support instructors in this transition.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

GA A01080

Establishes a mandatory statewide, classroom-based water safety education program; provides that the commissioner of education shall work with New York State Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance certified educators to develop and promulgate a statewide, age-appropriate, classroom-based water safety education guidance document; provides that within twenty-four months of the effective date of the bill, the department of education shall initiate statewide implementation of water safety education; provides that instruction shall be classroom-based and waterless and shall not require student access to aquatic facilities, swimming instruction, or in-water assessment.

GA S09480

Establishes a mandatory statewide, classroom-based water safety education program; provides that the commissioner of education shall work with New York State Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance certified educators to develop and promulgate a statewide, age-appropriate, classroom-based water safety education guidance document; provides that within twenty-four months of the effective date of the bill, the department of education shall initiate statewide implementation of water safety education; provides that instruction shall be classroom-based and waterless and shall not require student access to aquatic facilities, swimming instruction, or in-water assessment.

GA HB407

Mental health; authorize Department of Mental Health to establish minimum standards and services for privately-owned providers.

GA HF3446

South St. Paul; new swimming pool and aquatics center funding provided, bonds issued, and money appropriated.

GA SF3701

South St. Paul new swimming pool and aquatics center bond issue and appropriation

GA SB829

Allows the Department of Economic Development to publish certain reports on its website

GA S09826

Establishes a water safety swim instructor certification exam and water safety swim instruction and free swim lessons in schools in a city with a population of one million or more.

GA HF3066

Adaptive swimming lessons and water safety education program established for children with developmental delays and their parents.

GA S2854

Requires development of educational fact sheet on water safety for public and nonpublic schools; requires DOE to maintain list of locations providing swim lessons.

GA AB1294

An act to amend Sections 65585, 65589.5, and 65940.1 of, and to add Section 65941.2 to, the Government Code, relating to housing. An act to amend Section 214 of the Revenue and Taxation Code, relating to taxation, to take effect immediately, tax levy.

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