The bill amends several sections of the Revised Code of Washington (RCW) related to water recreation facilities, introducing new definitions and regulatory requirements. Key insertions include the definitions of "aquatic facility," "aquatic venue," and "residential aquatic facility," which clarify the types of structures and their intended uses. The bill also establishes that the state board of health will adopt rules governing safety, sanitation, and water quality for these facilities, with a focus on preventing drowning and recreational water illnesses, particularly in residential aquatic facilities. Additionally, it specifies that permits are required for modifications or construction of water recreation facilities, and outlines the responsibilities of local health jurisdictions in enforcing these regulations.
Significant deletions from the current law include exemptions for certain small residential facilities from preconstruction design review and inspection requirements, which are replaced with a more structured approach to ensure safety and compliance. The bill also raises the minimum insurance requirement for aquatic facilities to $1,000,000 for liability coverage. Furthermore, it clarifies that all water recreation facilities, regardless of ownership or intended use, are subject to the chapter's regulations, with specific exemptions for facilities used solely by residents and invited guests of single-family dwellings, as well as certain temporary inflatable equipment. Overall, the bill aims to enhance safety standards and regulatory oversight for water recreation facilities in Washington State.
Statutes affected: Original Bill: 70.90.110, 70.90.120, 70.90.140, 70.90.150, 70.90.160, 70.90.230, 70.90.240, 70.90.250