Expressing support for the work of open water lifeguards as first responders and emergency response providers.

HCONRES 41 is a non-binding congressional resolution expressing formal support for open water lifeguards. It reaffirms that lifeguards already qualify as first responders and emergency response providers under U.S. law, recognizing their essential role in protecting lives and property during water rescues, medical emergencies, and other incidents. The resolution specifically highlights that lifeguards perform the four defined duties of emergency response employees (responding, treating, assisting, and transporting victims) and aligns with the four tenets defining first responders (protecting life, property, evidence, and the environment). This resolution does not create new laws or funding but formally acknowledges lifeguards' existing status, directly affecting open water lifeguards nationwide who serve in coastal, lake, and river environments.