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CS/SB 544 — Swimming Lesson Voucher Program
by Health Policy Committee and Senators Hutson, Berman, and Book
This summary is provided for information only and does not represent the opinion of any Senator, Senate Officer, or Senate Office.
Prepared by: Health Policy Committee (HP)
The bill establishes the Swimming Lesson Voucher Program within the Department of Health (DOH) to increase water safety by offering vouchers for swimming lessons to families with an income of up to 200 percent of the federal poverty level that have one or more children four years of age or younger.
The bill requires the DOH to establish eligibility criteria for the vouchers; contract with a network of swimming lesson vendors, either directly or through specified non-profit entities, to ensure availability; and to establish methods for members of the public to apply for vouchers.
The bill appropriates $500,000 in nonrecurring general revenue to the DOH to fund the program.
If approved by the Governor, or allowed to become law without the Governor’s signature, the bill takes effect July 1, 2024.
Vote: Senate 39-0; House 114-0