Senate expands swim‑lesson vouchers and adds postpartum drowning‑prevention education

Tallahassee — The Florida Senate amended and passed SB 428 to expand the state's swim‑lesson voucher program and add drowning‑prevention education for new parents, a package supporters described as lifesaving.

Senator Yarbrough said drowning deaths in Florida have ranged from 350 to 500 annually and that young children drown at disproportionately higher rates. The bill expands eligibility for swim‑lesson vouchers from children ages 0–4 to ages 1–7 to align with national guidance and extend preventive instruction through early childhood.

Senator Smith offered an amendment to add the substance of SB 606, requiring the Department of Health to develop standardized postpartum educational materials for hospitals, birthing centers and home‑birth providers. Those materials must, at minimum, cover increased drowning risk for infants and toddlers, safe bathing practices, constant supervision, and the benefits of early childhood swimming lessons.

Senator Burgess and Senator Harrell echoed support, calling the bipartisan package "incredibly impactful" for children, particularly those with autism, who are at higher risk of drowning. A late‑file amendment broadened incorporation of the drowning‑prevention language and was adopted without objection.

The bill passed on third reading by a recorded vote of 36 yays, 0 nays. Sponsors noted the role of parents, local instructors and advocacy groups in shaping the legislation; the Department of Health will have follow‑up responsibility to develop materials and implement the education requirement.