A bill calling for rescue equipment along Lake Michigan’s shore passed the House Tuesday by a 94-0 vote and its supporters hope the required safety equipment will save the lives of swimmers in danger.
If signed by Gov. Eric Holcomb, Senate Bill 253, known as the Lake Michigan Rescue, would take effect July 1.
Its passage comes one year after the measure, sponsored by state Sen. Rodney Pol, D-Chesterton, failed to gain a hearing in the House Natural Resources Committee.
This year, however, it’s faced little opposition.
The bill mandates cities and towns along Lake Michigan to install life rings, safety ropes, and other rescue aids by July 1. Some beaches in Gary already have the rescue equipment, provided by a Miller-based water safety organization.
Supporters say the equipment could save lives and assist in rescuing swimmers caught in rip currents or other water emergencies. Illinois has already passed a similar law.
“We lose a lot of people in that lake,” said Chuck Moseley, D-Portage. He said six people died last year.
“Some are local and some from out of town. The lake creates a billion dollars in tourism every year and nearly one million visit every year.”
State Rep. Mike Andrade, D-Highland, said the cost of a drowning recovery is about $500,000.
“Public beaches should have lifesaving equipment available…. 45% of Great Lakes drownings are in Lake Michigan.”
Carole Carlson is a freelance reporter for the Post-Tribune.
