S.B. 1223 - Water Safety Education Pilot Program

• Require the Department of Education to establish a standards-based water safety education pilot program at an elementary school located within 1.5 miles of a swimming pool, in partnership with an existing community organization.

• Mandate the pilot program deliver water safety education during school hours using a curriculum aligned with state physical education and health education standards, covering fifteen water safety competencies.

• Establish program objectives to develop student water safety knowledge, safe behaviors and risk-management skills, and aquatic motor skills and survival skills.

• Appropriate funds from general revenues for fiscal years 2025-2026 and 2026-2027 to establish and operate the pilot program (specific amount left blank in bill text).

• Require the Department of Education to submit findings, recommendations, and any proposed legislation to the legislature no later than twenty days before the 2026 regular session convenes; effective July 1, 2025.