Buffalo Ledger

Senator Patrick M. Gallivan (R-C, Elma) has announced that legislation to align New York State’s statutory provisions governing swimming pool enclosure gates with international standards has been signed into law by the governor. Senator Gallivan sponsored the bill (S.7731A), which is based on language from the International Swimming Pool and Spa Code and the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) Code.

While drowning remains the leading cause of unintentional injury-related death for children ages 1-4 years nationwide, New York’s existing regulations regarding swimming pool enclosures have been deemed outdated. The new law authorizes the State Fire Prevention and Building Code Council to develop new standards for gate latching mechanisms.

"Updating these safety provisions will help ensure first responders and bystanders will be able to better access swimming pool gates in the event of an emergency,” Senator Gallivan said. “Aligning New York's regulations with international standards will enhance pool safety and better protect children. I thank the fencing and swimming pool industries for bringing this to the legislature's attention."

The American Fence Association (AFA) advocated for the legislation to address a persistent challenge faced by fence contractors, manufacturers, and distributors in New York. With the new law, contractors will now be able to install pool gate latches in accordance with ASTM standards, creating safer pool environments for all New Yorkers.

"I want to thank our members in New York for their unwavering commitment to improving our industry," said AFA Executive Director Michael Reed. "We are grateful to Governor Hochul for prioritizing pool gate safety and advancing the highest standards within the fence industry. Special thanks to Senator Gallivan for his leadership and dedication in championing this essential legislation.”

The legislation passed both the Senate and Assembly unanimously.

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