In the near future, I plan to introduce legislation requiring Pennsylvania’s State-owned and State-related universities to provide community recreational swimming access at campuses that own or operate swimming facilities.

Swimming provides important recreational, health, fitness, and water safety benefits for Pennsylvanians of all ages. However, many communities lack affordable and accessible swimming opportunities. Our public universities are important community assets, and where these institutions already maintain swimming facilities, reasonable public access should be available when it does not interfere with academic, athletic, or institutional programming.

My legislation would apply to universities within the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education, as well as Penn State University, the University of Pittsburgh, Temple University, and Lincoln University. Covered campuses would be required to provide at least 25 hours per week of community recreational swimming availability, including at least 10 hours during evenings or weekends and access on at least three separate days each week.

Institutions would be permitted to charge daily fees, offer memberships, and provide reduced rates for seniors, children, and county residents. The bill would not require the construction of new pools or provide additional Commonwealth funding.

This proposal expands access to existing public assets, promotes health and wellness, and supports water safety in communities across Pennsylvania.

Please join me in cosponsoring this legislation.