New swimming pool regulations postponed
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A new law that would affect all public pools isn't starting yet as originally planned. The Department of Justice postponed the requirement of installing lifts to accommodate disabled people. The law was passed in 20-10.
Hotel industry experts say there was widespread confusion about what types of lifts would be considered acceptable under the new law. Questions also arose on whether each pool would be required to have its own lift, or if facilities could have one lift that is used in multiple pools. Justice Department officials delayed the law for 60 days.
Last month, we told you how local hotels across Central New York were working hard to comply with the new regulations.
Disability advocates from Enable in Syracuse say they think the regulations are a good idea. Executive Director Sara Wall-Bollinger says it's about more than accessibility; it's about inclusion.
North Country Congressman Bill Owens (D, 23rd District) was one of the voices, speaking out about concerns regarding the new regulations, which he calls overly broad. Owens says the rules left many in the hotel industry confused about the requirements and penalties. He wrote several letters to the Justice Department for clarification.
Information from CNN was used in this story.
