Sponsor Statement for CSHB 30 (JUD)

by Representative Eldon Mulder

CSHB 30 was introduced at the request of the Municipality of Anchorage.

The Municipality of Anchorage, City and Borough of Juneau and several other municipalities would like to create skateboard parks so skateboarders will have a place to ride, rather than using other areas designed for pedestrians. The municipalities are willing to develop areas suitable for skateboard riding if they can be insulated from liability for claims arising from hazards inherent in skateboarding.

The intent of CSHB 30 is to encourage the municipalities to proceed with development of areas for outdoor recreation without increasing their liability unnecessarily. The bill applies only to municipal skateboard parks.

This bill is patterned after the legislation passed providing this limited protection to ski areas. The protection from liability relates to inherent dangers and risks of skateboarding. The municipality is required to post signs warning that there are inherent risks to skateboarding and the liability rests with the skateboarder.