Knott’s-Backed Bill Gets Panel’s OK

A bill sponsored by Knott’s Berry Farm that would make it tougher for guests to win injury lawsuits against amusement parks won unanimous approval Wednesday from an Assembly committee.

The Judiciary Committee voted 9 to 0 for the bill introduced by Speaker Curt Pringle (R-Garden Grove) whose district includes Knott’s Berry Farm in Buena Park. It now moves on to the Appropriations Committee.

The California Rider Safety Act would create a state law governing rules of conduct for patrons of the state’s amusement parks. The bill would require riders to obey posted safety rules and refrain from acting in a manner that would harm themselves or anyone else. Riders would have to know their own physical limitations and avoid drugs and alcohol before going on rides.

The bill would also give amusement park operators the right to detain guests who violate the rules and eject them from the park.

Supporters of the measure say it will establish a new standard of liability and protect amusement parks from injury lawsuits brought by park guests who hurt themselves through their own negligence or misconduct.

“It’s a deterrent to frivolous and excessive lawsuits,” said Deborah Gonzalez, policy director for Pringle’s office.

But opponents say amusement park operators are trying to shift responsibility for health and safety onto park visitors, who have no way of assessing the risks of rides and attractions before they go on them.

“It’s a way for operators to escape accountability and responsibility by placing the burden of safety onto the patrons,” said Thomas Brandi, a lawyer with the Consumer Attorneys of California. “They’re basically saying, ‘You pay your money and you take your chances.’ ”

Officials from Knott’s declined to comment.