Currently, many lifeguards are treated as seasonal or recreational staff rather than professional emergency workers. This matters because it often leaves them without the specialized insurance, mental health resources, or pension plans that other emergency workers receive.

If this resolution leads to actual changes in law, it would ensure that when a lifeguard is injured or killed in the line of duty, they or their families have access to the same support systems as a police officer. It also highlights that during national emergencies, like a pandemic, these workers should be prioritized for things like vaccinations because of their constant contact with the public in emergency situations.