Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB96

Filed

11/10/08

Out of Senate Committee

4/15/09

Voted on by Senate

4/23/09

Out of House Committee

Voted on by House

Governor Action

Bill Becomes Law

Caption

Relating to swimming pool and spa safety.

Impact

If enacted, SB96 would amend the Health and Safety Code to include new provisions under Chapter 761, which outlines comprehensive safety requirements for pool installations. By imposing these regulations, the bill seeks to reduce the frequency of drowning and entrapment incidents, particularly among young children who may gain unsupervised access to pools. The bill reflects a broader legislative effort to prioritize public safety in residential environments, ensuring that pool constructions adhere to newly established safety protocols.

Summary

Senate Bill 96 aims to enhance swimming pool and spa safety across Texas through a series of stringent regulations. The bill stipulates requirements for pool sellers and installers to provide safety equipment aimed at preventing accidents, particularly among children. This includes mandatory pool yard enclosures, anti-entrapment devices, and illustrates detailed specifications for drains and drain covers. The bill intends to establish standardized safety measures that align with national safety standards in order to mitigate risks associated with swimming pools and spas.

Contention

While supporters argue that SB96 is a necessary step for enhancing safety standards, there may be concerns regarding the financial burden placed on pool sellers and homeowners due to the costs of implementing the mandated safety features. Some stakeholders might fear that these regulations could lead to additional fees or deter individuals from investing in pool installations. Furthermore, discussions may arise surrounding local versus state control in enforcing such safety measures and the implications for existing pool owners who may now have to upgrade their safety features to comply with the new laws.

Latest SB96 Activity

Companion Bills

TX HB463

Identical Relating to swimming pool safety; providing a civil penalty.

TX HB526

Same As Relating to swimming pool safety; providing a civil penalty.

Previously Filed As

TX HB2424

Relating to training and certification requirements for inspectors of public swimming pools, including spas, and artificial swimming lagoons.

TX HB697

Relating to seller's disclosures regarding fuel gas piping in residential real property.

TX HB1256

Relating to seller's disclosure notice concerning special districts in which residential real property is located.

TX SB864

Relating to certain seller's disclosures for the sale of residential real property.

TX HB59

Relating to child water safety requirements for certain organizations; authorizing disciplinary action, including an administrative penalty.

TX SB591

Relating to child water safety requirements for certain organizations; authorizing disciplinary action, including an administrative penalty.

TX HR1342

Recognizing May 2023 as Water Safety Month.

TX SR603

Recognizing May 2023 as National Water Safety Month.

TX SB1806

Relating to the exemption of miniature boilers that are integrated as a component of a medical device regulated by the United States Food and Drug Administration and unfired pressure vessels contained within an autoclave from boiler inspection requirements.

TX HB3

Relating to measures for ensuring public school safety, including the development and implementation of purchases relating to and funding for public school safety and security requirements and the provision of safety-related resources.