COLUMBUS, Ohio — A new bill introduced in the Ohio House of Representatives aims to enhance water safety education in schools across the state. House Bill 659, sponsored by Representatives Adam Mathews (R), Brian Lorenz (R), and Josh Williams (R), seeks to amend sections 3314.03 and 3326.11 of the Revised Code and enact section 3313.473, requiring certain public and chartered nonpublic schools to provide information about water safety education to students and their families.
The proposed legislation, which would take effect beginning with the 2025-2026 school year, mandates that school districts and chartered nonpublic schools must inform parents about the importance of water safety education and swimming lessons when enrolling their children. The goal of this initiative is to promote safety in, on, and around bodies of water, thereby reducing the risk of injury or drowning.
The bill specifies that the information provided to parents should be age-appropriate and emphasize the life-saving benefits of water safety courses and swimming lessons. Schools will be required to offer this information either electronically or in hard copy, and where available, include details about local options for water safety courses and swimming lessons. This may also include information on programs that offer free or reduced-price courses and lessons, along with opportunities to obtain certification upon successful completion.
For students who are 18 years of age or older, the information will be provided directly to the student. Similarly, for those enrolling in adult education programs under the age of 21, the information will be made available to them.
