Purpose of the Bill

The bill aims to establish an adaptive swimming lessons and water safety education program specifically designed for children with developmental delays and their parents. The program seeks to enhance safety and skill in water environments, focusing on those with unique challenges related to developmental conditions.

Main Provisions

• Eligibility: The program targets children aged 3 to 21 diagnosed with developmental delays, who are part of low-income families. Eligibility is tied to enrollment in assistance programs such as medical assistance, MinnesotaCare, federal free and reduced-price meal programs, or other similar services.
• Program Implementation: The program will be managed by the Minnesota Department of Health in collaboration with the city of St. Paul and pertinent autism advocacy groups. Water safety instructors will contribute expertise from across the U.S.
• Voucher Distribution: Families of eligible children receive vouchers for a set of adaptive swimming lessons, ensuring statewide equitable distribution.
• Supporting Elements: The program includes stipends for instructors, training, facility rentals, and swim kits with necessary equipment for children.
• Educational Outreach: Parents receive culturally relevant water safety education, with support aimed at maintaining family engagement. Autism advocacy organizations play a role in providing ongoing education and support.
• Instructor Qualifications: All instructors must be certified at level 1 or higher in swim instruction, possess American Red Cross water safety certification, and be trained to work with neurodivergent children.

Significant Changes

• Introduction of a structured program to ensure water safety education is inclusive and accessible to children with developmental delays and their families, addressing a specific public health and safety need.
• Allocation of funds for program implementation, including community outreach and ongoing support.

Relevant Terms

adaptive swimming lessons, water safety education, developmental delays, neurodivergent children, autism advocacy, low-income assistance programs, cultural competence in education, Minnesota public health funding