This bill mandates the Commissioner of Education to create an educational fact sheet focused on water safety, which will provide essential information for parents and guardians on reducing the risk of injury or drowning in and around bodies of water. The fact sheet will cover topics such as the importance of swimming lessons, proper use of flotation devices, and the significance of monitoring water conditions. The Commissioner is required to consult with water safety organizations, including the American Red Cross, in developing this resource. School districts are obligated to distribute the fact sheet annually to parents and guardians, while nonpublic schools are encouraged to do the same.
Furthermore, the bill requires each school district to compile and maintain a list of local venues offering swimming lessons and age-appropriate water safety courses, including options available at no or reduced cost. This list must be accessible on the district's website and updated annually to ensure that families have current information on available resources. The act will take effect 180 days after its enactment.