Posted: Sunday, 30 December 2007 10:54AM

Waterpark Accident Leads to Bill Requiring Insurance

JOPLIN, Mo (AP) -- A state lawmaker is proposing legislation that would impose new regulations on for-profit private waterparks, including the need for at least $1 million in liability insurance.

The move comes after a Joplin boy drowned this summer at a local water park not covered by state regulations.

Lauren Cory, whose 6-year-old son, Ethan, drowned on a field trip to the Swimmin' Hole on July 17, said she hoped legislators passed the bill quickly.

"We know it's a long process, but there's absolutely no reason not to change it,'' Cory said. "All this is going to do is protect children.''

House Bill 1341, nicknamed "Ethan's Law,'' would require the owner of a for-profit, privately owned swimming pool to keep $1 million or more of insurance in the event of the death or injury of a patron.

State Rep. Marilyn Ruestman, whose district includes the Swimmin' Hole, is sponsoring the legislation. She called Ethan's death "a very tragic incident'' and said the bill will be her priority when the Legislature convenes on Jan. 9.

©AP