AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 49, Chapter 6; Title 49, Chapter 7 and Title 49, Chapter 8, relative to water safety.
The provisions of SB0897 will amend Tennessee Code Annotated in multiple titles related to education. It would require LEAs and public higher education institutions to implement these educational requirements beginning in the 2023-2024 academic year. This legislation is expected to standardize water safety education across the state, ensuring that students and parents are adequately informed about water safety practices and resources available to them. This is particularly important in a state with numerous bodies of water where drowning can pose a significant risk, especially for young children.
Senate Bill 897 (SB0897) aims to enhance water safety education throughout Tennessee by mandating public schools and institutions of higher education to provide information on the importance of water safety and swimming lessons. Specifically, the bill requires local education agencies (LEAs) to inform students and their parents about the risks of drowning, ways to mitigate these risks, and the availability of age-appropriate water safety courses and swimming lessons, particularly those offered free or at a reduced price. Such education is intended to raise awareness and promote water competence among children and caregivers, ultimately aiming to reduce drowning incidents across the state.
Despite its purpose to enhance public safety and educate on drowning prevention, SB0897 may encounter contention regarding the allocation of resources necessary for implementing the required educational programs. Critics may argue that mandating such programs could impose additional financial burdens on LEAs and universities already facing budget constraints. Moreover, discussions may arise around the effectiveness of the mandated information dissemination and whether it will lead to actual changes in behavior regarding water safety.
The bill's implementation is scheduled to take effect on July 1, 2023, which coincides with the start of the 2023-2024 school year. It emphasizes the necessity for schools to act swiftly in integrating these educational components into their curricula. The focus will be on collaboration with local organizations that provide water safety education, thereby creating opportunities for community engagement in promoting water safety.