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HCR 17

Recognize impact of lifeguard shortage; encourage lifeguarding

136th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Sean Brennan and 10 co-sponsors

Ohio House resolution acknowledges lifeguard shortage and encourages increased recruitment and retention efforts to address water safety workforce gaps.

Introduced and Referred to Committee
#employment #publicsafety #stateandlocalgovernment
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Bill Summary · HCR 17

Legislative bill overview

HCR 17 is a House concurrent resolution that acknowledges the critical shortage of lifeguards across Ohio and encourages increased recruitment, training, and retention efforts in the lifeguarding profession. The resolution does not create law or allocate funding but serves as an official statement of legislative intent and support for addressing this workforce gap.

Why is this important

Lifeguard shortages directly impact public safety at beaches, pools, and water facilities, potentially limiting operating hours or forcing closures during peak seasons. This shortage affects recreational access, summer employment opportunities for young workers, and the ability of communities to provide essential water safety services, particularly in underserved areas.

Potential points of contention

  • Non-binding nature: As a concurrent resolution, this bill carries no enforcement mechanism or funding authorization, making it largely symbolic rather than substantive
  • Lack of specific solutions: The bill encourages action without proposing concrete measures such as wage increases, training subsidies, or regulatory changes to make lifeguarding more attractive
  • Resource allocation questions: Without addressing root causes (low pay, seasonal work, physical demands), the resolution may be seen as insufficient to meaningfully solve the shortage problem

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

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