House attempts to improve whitewater facility regulations

RALEIGH, N.C. (AP) — The death of an Ohio teenager who contracted an infection after visiting the U.S. National Whitewater Center in Charlotte has led the North Carolina House to back legislation a lawmaker says will make it easier for health officials to regulate such centers.

The House gave unanimous initial approval Tuesday to the measure, which also directs that drinking water from public schools with construction permits before 1987 be tested for lead.

An amendment from Rep. William Brawley of Matthews makes clear "water recreation attractions" are regulated along with public swimming pools. It also directs the state public health commission to create rules overseeing artificial whitewater facilities with recirculating water that test for substances.

Samples turned up an amoeba in the center's water. A final House vote could come Wednesday.

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