Lawmakers vow to keep swimming pools open during drought

Three state senators have introduced legislation to prevent the state’s Environmental Protection Division from closing swimming pools, should drought conditions persist beyond the spring. Senate Bill 368, authored by Sen. Chip Rogers (R-Woodstock), Sen. Judson Hill (R-Marietta) and Sen. John Wiles (R-Kennesaw), will remove the power from the EPD director to make such a decision.

There is fear that water could become so scarce that public and private pools may be shut down in the coming months. Lawmakers say it would not only inconvenience families with children, but could send the state’s swimming pool industry and related businesses into possible bankruptcy.

“I know of no other state where non-elected officials have taken such a drastic measure,” Sen. Rogers said today. “There is absolutely no evidence that closing swimming pools will noticeably impact our drought situation."

Officials estimate the pool industry at 150 million dollars in Georgia.

Senate Bill 368 has been assigned to the Senate Natural Resources and Environment Committee.