Researcher: JC Page 1 3/9/21
OLR Bill Analysis
SB 702
AN ACT CONCERNING A PROGRAM TO PROVIDE FREE
SWIMMING LESSONS TO INDIVIDUALS UNDER THE AGE OF
EIGHTEEN.
SUMMARY
This bill requires the Department of Energy and Environmental
Protection (DEEP), within available appropriations, to establish and
administer an annual program to provide swimming lessons to
children under age 18. The program must be (1) free to participants, (2)
during the summer months, and (3) in at least eight state parks that
meet criteria developed by DEEP.
Under the bill, DEEP must adopt criteria for selecting the state
parks, giving priority to parks (1) with appropriate facilities and (2)
located in municipalities that lack free swimming lessons for residents.
Additionally, the bill allows DEEP to (1) contract with a nonprofit
entity that provides swimming lessons and water safety skills
instruction to give swimming lessons under the program and (2)
accept gifts, grants, and donations from public or private sources to
establish and administer the program.
EFFECTIVE DATE: July 1, 2021
COMMITTEE ACTION
Committee on Children
Joint Favorable
Yea 10 Nay 3 (02/25/2021)