Radio Report: House unanimously approves Rep. Abbarno’s ‘Zack’s Law’ cold-water shock warning bill

March 7, 2023

The state House of Representatives gave unanimous approval Tuesday to a bill seeks to prevent cold-water shock drownings in Washington's waters. John Sattgast reports from the state Capitol.

SATTGAST: House Bill 1004, also known as “Zack's Law,” would require signs to be erected on or near bridges and waterways to warn people of cold-water shock risks. The measure is named after 18-year-old Zachary Rager, who drowned two years ago in the Chehalis River.

ABBARNO: “He had jumped into that river numerous times, like many of us have. Unfortunately, on this day, due to the warm, sunny weather, there was a lot of snow melt, and the water was freezing cold.”

Centralia Republican Representative Peter Abbarno says cold water shock is a hidden danger that's preventable.

ABBARNO: “Many people really don't know the dangers of cold-water shock. And unfortunately, Zack found out how cold that water was when he jumped in. He immediately gasped. He went under the water and his friends never saw him again.”

SATTGAST: The bill passed 95 to 0. It now goes to the Senate for further consideration. John Sattgast, the state Capitol.