In some cases, the cost of compliance with the mandated Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act (VGBA) is high enough to keep a pool from opening this summer.

©Image from BigStockPhoto.com

The Association of Pool & Spa Professionals (APSP) is urging U.S. Vice-President Joe Biden to re-evaluate his remarks prohibiting municipalities from using federal stimulus package funds to build and service public swimming pool facilities.

The money, part of a recent federal stimulus package, offers tax credits and loan incentives to each state for a variety of projects that will help the country's economy recover.

"Community pools and playgrounds are an important part of American infrastructure and are deserving of federal stimulus funding," said Bill Weber, president and CEO of the APSP.

Prohibiting states and municipalities from investing in swimming pool facilities is particularly devastating now, as many communities are working hard to bring their facilities into compliance with the federally mandated Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act (VGBA) for entrapment avoidance. In some cases, the cost of compliance is high enough to keep a pool from opening this summer.

Without funds for renovation and upgrades, poorly maintained pools may expose families to various health and safety risks. Additionally, without a community pool available, children will not be able to swim in a safe, supervised environment.