About the Commission
The New York State Temporary Commission to Prevent Childhood Drowning was established in December 2021, following the passing of a bill (A.7734/S.7129, 2021) introduced by Assemblywoman Stacey Pheffer Amato and Senator Timothy M. Kennedy. Governor Kathy Hochul signed the bill into law, reinforcing the State's commitment to addressing the rise in childhood drownings.
The Commission is charged with evaluating and creating programs to educate children and caregivers about water safety protocols. Its efforts encompass consulting with experts, collaboratively working within committees to fulfill its objectives, and conducting public meetings and town halls to gather input and raise awareness. The Commission is set to publish its conclusive report in December 2024.
Governor Hochul signed a bill in August 2024 that extends the Commission's work until December 2025.