Florida Expands Swim Vouchers to Save More Little Ones

0:00Ford, a lawmaker, has just passed the bill to expand the swim voucher program, opening it up to kids from 1 to 7 years old instead of just up to 4. Drowning remains the leading cause of death for children, 1 to 4, across the U.S., according to the CDC, and this move aims to get more little ones. Those critical water safety skills. The legislation cleared both the House and Senate, and now it's on the governor's desk. If signed, the changes kick in July 1st, 2026. Swimming instructor Karri Bajor, who lost her 16-month-old son to a silent pool drowning 27 years ago, he recovered fully, has been pushing. These lessons for decades. She stresses how drowning happens quietly, with no screams, often in mere seconds, when parents turn away for a phone call or bathroom break. Advocates like Stacey Hogan from a disability group say the expansion will especially help kids with autism, who face higher risks. State records show at least 19 child drowning so far this year, from pools and hot tubs

1:02to lakes and ponds. The most recent hit, Oceola County, at a community pool back in April. As Florida ramps up these vouchers, it's a real shot at cutting those heartbreaking numbers before they climb higher. That wraps Tampa Bay News today, brought to you with AI.