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 SB50

Education; local boards of education which operate a school with grades nine through 12 may provide instruction in lifeguarding and aquatic safety; provide

GA AB768

School safety: aquatic and pool safety program: model policy.

GA HB407

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

GA HB1526

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

GA H0413

Swimming Safety

GA SB319

Public Safety - Maryland Swimming Pool and Spa Standards - Adoption

GA HB303

Public Safety - Maryland Swimming Pool and Spa Standards - Adoption

GA SF284

Fees prohibition for viewing and downloading district court documents made available online

GA HB916

Health care providers; health records of minors, available via secure website.

GA HF138

Fees prohibited for viewing and downloading district court documents made available online.

Similar Bills

MI SB0356

Vehicles: driver training; instructor of a driver education instructor preparation course; modify requirements to become. Amends sec. 23 of 2006 PA 384 (MCL 256.643).

CA AB248

Individuals with disabilities: The Dignity for All Act.

IA HSB283

A bill for an act requiring the board of educational examiners to issue certificates when directed by the board of directors of a school district to individuals who have attained a minimum of a baccalaureate degree and who have expertise or significant professional experience in a subject area that allows the individual to provide instruction in that subject area to students enrolled in the school district in grades nine through twelve.

NM HB206

Secondary Instructors Act

OR SB695

Relating to funding for crisis response services; declaring an emergency.

AZ HB2199

Cosmetology instructors

OK SB721

Firearm training; clarifying language; directing certain approval; removing certain time inclusion; removing certain exemption requirement. Effective date.

IL HB3516

HIGHER ED-DUAL CREDIT