WeVote

Bill

WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 382

Bill Overview

HB 382 (2026 Regular Session, Kentucky) is an act relating to swimming pools. The bill appears to focus on regulatory or safety requirements governing the construction, operation, maintenance, or oversight of swimming pools within the state. The available action history indicates initial committee referrals, but does not include the full text or explicit provisions. The summary below reflects typical themes for a bill of this type and highlights areas to verify in the full bill text.

Purpose and Intent

  • Establish or modify standards for swimming pools to protect public health, safety, and welfare.
  • Potentially address licensing, inspections, or compliance requirements for pool owners, operators, contractors, or facilities.
  • Seek to align Kentucky pool regulations with updated model codes, statewide safety programs, or local authority powers.

Key Provisions (provisional based on common framework for pool-related legislation)

Note: The exact text of HB 382 is not provided here. The following are typical provisions you may expect in a swimming pool regulation bill and should be verified against the bill’s final language.

  • Safety and Barrier Requirements:
    • Specification of fencing, self-latching gates, and pool enclosures to prevent unauthorized access, especially for residential and rental properties.
    • Mechanical safety features (drain covers, anti-entrapment devices) and compliance timelines.
  • Licensing and Oversight:
    • Requirements for pool contractors, installers, and service personnel to obtain licenses or certifications.
    • Regulation authority for a state agency or department (e.g., health,commerce, or licensing board) to administer permits, inspections, and enforcement.
  • Inspections and Compliance:
    • Inspection frequency (annual or biennial) and procedures.
    • Penalties for noncompliance, including fines, suspension, or revocation of licenses.
  • Construction and Installation Standards:
    • Adherence to minimum construction standards, equipment specifications, and safety features.
    • Deadlines for compliance with updated codes or standards.
  • Public vs. Private Pools:
    • Distinctions in requirements for public facilities (hotels, community pools, apartment complexes) versus private/residential pools.
  • Fees and Funding:
    • Permit, license, or inspection fees; possible allocation of revenues to a pool safety or public health program.
  • Training and Education:
    • Requirements for pool operators to complete safety training or certification.
  • Recordkeeping and Reporting:
    • Mandatory record retention for permits, inspections, and corrective actions.
  • Enforcement and Appeals:
    • Procedures for citations, hearing rights, and appeal processes.

Affected Parties

  • Pool owners and operators (residential and commercial).
  • Pool builders, installers, maintenance firms, and service technicians.
  • Local health departments or state licensing agencies responsible for oversight.
  • Consumers and pool users who benefit from enhanced safety standards.

Procedural and Timeline Considerations

  • Current status: Introduced in the Kentucky House on 2026-01-14 and referred to the Licensing, Occupations, & Administrative Regulations Committee (H) on 2026-01-22. Also listed as referred to Committee on Committees (H) on 2026-01-14.
  • Next steps: The bill will likely proceed through committee hearings, potential amendments, and floor votes in the House before moving to the Senate (if applicable). Final passage would require agreement on the text by both chambers and gaveling by the governor.
  • Effective dates: If enacted, the bill would specify effective dates for different provisions (e.g., immediate upon enactment, or staged compliance over 6–24 months). Compliance timelines may vary by facility type (public vs. private).

Potential Impacts and Considerations

  • Public Safety: Enhanced protections against drowning, entrapment, and unauthorized access for pools.
  • Economic Impact: Compliance costs for pool owners and operators, including licensing, inspections, and installation of safety features.
  • Administrative Burden: Additional responsibilities for licensing boards and local health departments in administering and enforcing provisions.
  • Legal and Compliance: Clear delineation of penalties and appeal avenues to ensure due process for violators.

Notes for Readers

  • For a precise understanding, review the final language of HB 382, including all sections, definitions, and any referenced codes or standards.
  • Pay attention to specific dates, phased-in compliance timelines, and any exemptions or special provisions that may apply to different pool types or facilities.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.