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The PHTA Government Relations team continues to press on, monitoring state and local legislation as well as rulemaking nationwide. With 48 state legislatures meeting this week, the GR team is currently advocating in 20 states around the country lobbying for legislation and rulemaking that benefits PHTA and its members. Priority issues surround the adoption of the International Swimming Pool & Spa Code (ISPSC), Portable Electric Spa Energy Efficiency via adoption of the APSP-14 Standard, Licensing/Certification/Training, Pool & Hot Tub Safety and Education, Prop 65 in California, as well as other areas. The following are a few highlights:

• APSP-14, Portable Spa Legislation: The adoption of the APSP-14 Standard for portable electric spas for every state is absolutely critical for the hot tub industry. This standard promotes energy efficiency and creates one standard for manufacturers to follow nationwide. In Massachusetts, Governor Charlie Baker signed Senate Bill 9. In Maryland, a hearing was held for SB 418 in the House Economic Matters Committee. PHTA provided written and oral testimony in support. Additionally, a hearing was held in Nevada for AB 383. PHTA submitted written testimony in support of the proposed legislation.
• International Swimming Pool & Spa Code (ISPSC) Legislation: The adoption of the ISPSC nationwide is a top priority by PHTA. The adoption of the ISPSC nationwide creates a uniform standard, works in conjunction with other international codes currently adopted, and is the most comprehensive standard for swimming pools and spas. In Missouri, the House Special Committee on Small Business passed HB 489. The proposed legislation will now go to the full House of Representatives.
• Licensing/Certification/Training: Ensuring that swimming pools and spas are constructed in accordance with the ISPSC by licensed professionals, that instructors are trained and properly certified, and access to online training is a key initiative by PHTA. In Montana, SB 152, which would allow the Department of Public Health and Human Services to adopt rules relating to the licensing of operators of public swimming pools and bathing places, passed the legislature and was sent to Governor Gianforte for signature.
• Decarbonization: “Decarb Efforts” have been gaining traction and significantly impact the goal of balanced energy solutions. In Nevada, a hearing was held on April 6 for AB 380, which places onerous and burdensome requirements on natural gas public utilities. PHTA raised awareness of the hearing via social media and submitted a written testimony in opposition.
• Prop 65 (California): California Proposition 65 (Regulation ID CA62818), which would limit use of the short-form version of the safe harbor warning, was published in the California Register. PHTA and CPSA signed on to coalitions' letters submitted by the National Association of Manufacturers and the California Chamber of Commerce in opposition to the proposed rules. Comments were due March 29. Staff will review the rule and any comments received.

Questions or input on any legislative, regulatory, or local matters should be directed to Jason Davidson at jdavidson@phta.org.

For a full, comprehensive report on PHTA Government Relations activites nationwide, click here.