Utah SB0126 mandates water safety instruction in public education and allows swim and lifeguard training courses for credit.

Utah SB0126 requires the state board to develop water safety instruction standards for physical education, starting in the 2028-2029 academic year. Local education agencies may offer swim instruction, lifeguard certification, and swim instructor certification courses for credit. Students can receive credit for these courses if they complete them outside of school hours. The bill also allows exemptions for students whose parents opt out or who have an Individualized Education Program inconsistent with the instruction. The bill takes effect July 1, 2026.

Utah SB0126 mandates water safety instruction in public education and allows swim and lifeguard training courses for credit.

Utah SB0126 requires the state board to develop water safety instruction standards for physical education, starting in the 2028-2029 academic year. Local education agencies may offer swim instruction, lifeguard certification, and swim instructor certification courses for credit. Students can receive credit for these courses if they complete them outside of school hours. The bill also allows exemptions for students whose parents opt out or who have an Individualized Education Program inconsistent with the instruction. The bill takes effect July 1, 2026.