HEALTH CLUBS
House Bill 4141
Sponsor: Rep. Gilda Z. Jacobs
Committee: Regulatory Reform
Complete to 4-19-01
A SUMMARY OF HOUSE BILL 4141 AS INTRODUCED 2-6-01
The bill would create a new act to regulate health clubs with respect to medical emergencies. The bill's provisions would pertain to an establishment that provides, as its primary purpose, services or facilities that purport to assist patrons in physical exercise, in weight control, or in figure development. This would include, but not be limited to, a fitness center, studio, salon, or club. A hotel or motel that provided physical fitness equipment or activities, an organization solely offering training or facilities for an individual sport, or a weight reduction center would be excluded from regulation under the bill.
The bill would require the owner or operator of a health club to both of the following:
· During the times the health club is open to the public, have at least one employee present who has been trained in basic first aid and basic cardiopulmonary resuscitation taught by the American Red Cross, American Heart Association, or an equivalent organization approved by the Department of Community Health.
· Develop and implement an emergency plan to address emergency services, when needed, during operational hours at the health club.
A violation of the bill's provisions would be a civil infraction punishable by a civil fine not to exceed $250 for a first offense, $500 for a second offense, or $1,000 for a third or subsequent offense.
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This analysis was prepared by nonpartisan House staff for use by House members in their deliberations, and does not constitute an official statement of legislative intent.