By Seven Weaver Producer
Associated Press
Associated Press
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Georgia open this year, three Republican lawmakers
say they've found a way to stop environmental officials from
shutting them down.
A measure introduced Tuesday would prevent the Environmental
Protection Division from closing swimming pools because of the
drought. The bill's sponsors say that could cripple Georgia's 150
million dollar pool industry.
State Senator Chip Rogers of Woodstock says there is no evidence
that closing swimming pools will noticeably affect the drought
situation."
But it's unclear whether the measure could decide the fate of
pools next summer. Governor Perdue's office says he will also help
make the decision.
The drought forced state officials to ban virtually all outdoor
watering in north Georgia. That edict also could restrict
homeowners and communities from filling up their outdoor pools.
EPD Director Carol Couch said last week she's studying ways to
give residents more flexibility and plans to soon hand Perdue a
recommendation addressing swimming pools.
(Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)
