Bill > A4763

This bill requires the New Jersey Commissioner of Education to develop a comprehensive water safety educational fact sheet for public and nonpublic schools, which must include information on reducing children's drowning risks, the importance of water safety education and swimming lessons, proper use of flotation devices, and the significance of swimming in lifeguard-monitored areas. The commissioner will develop this fact sheet in consultation with organizations like the American Red Cross and the New Jersey Swim Safety Alliance, and must make it available to all school districts and nonpublic schools. Public school districts are mandated to distribute the fact sheet annually to parents and guardians, while nonpublic schools are encouraged but not required to do so. Additionally, the bill requires the Department of Education to create and maintain an online, county-organized list of locations offering swimming lessons and water safety courses, including free or reduced-price options. This list must be updated annually, made available to school districts, and each school district must provide access to it on their website. The bill will take effect 180 days after its enactment, giving schools and the Department of Education time to prepare and implement the new requirements.

Education

https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2024/A4763