Louisiana 2024 Regular Session

Louisiana House Bill HB973

Introduced
4/24/24  
Introduced
4/24/24  
Engrossed
4/30/24  
Refer
5/1/24  

Caption

Provide relative to the limitation of liability for recreational landowners

Impact

The implications of this bill are significant as it modifies existing state laws regarding the liability of landowners, particularly focusing on the delineation of responsibilities when recreational activities take place on their land. Importantly, the bill expands the scenarios under which landowners, including those operating commercial facilities, can limit their liability. The inclusion of different types of recreational activities not previously covered may increase the use and accessibility of private lands for public recreation. This legislative change may lead landowners to more readily open their premises for such activities, potentially enhancing community access to recreational opportunities.

Summary

House Bill 973 aims to enhance the liability protections for landowners who allow their property to be used for recreational purposes, thereby promoting recreational activities across the state. By providing a limitation of liability for injuries that occur on their land during such activities, the bill seeks to encourage landowners to open their properties for public enjoyment without the fear of being held liable for events that are typically outside their control. This includes various recreational activities such as hunting, fishing, and various sports, effectively broadening the definition of 'recreational purposes' to encompass a wider array of activities.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 973 has generally been positive among proponents, who view it as a necessary legal adjustment that would promote outdoor recreation and facilitate a greater willingness among landowners to allow public use of their land. Conversely, some skepticism exists regarding the potential for reduced safety standards, as the limitation on liability may dissuade landowners from maintaining properties to stringent safety requirements. This dual perspective underscores the ongoing debate between fostering public recreational access and ensuring appropriate safety protections against negligence.

Contention

Debates around HB 973 highlight concerns regarding public safety and the extent to which liability should be limited. Critics argue that while the bill indeed incentivizes landowners to open their property, it could inadvertently lead to a lax attitude towards property maintenance and safety, resulting in potentially hazardous conditions. Some stakeholders emphasize the need for balancing property rights, encouraging recreational land use, and maintaining rigorous safety standards to protect public interests. Ensuring that the measures of limitation do not compromise the safety and wellbeing of recreationists has been a notable point of contention during discussions.

Companion Bills

LA HB858

Replaces Provides relative to the limitation of liability for recreational landowners

Previously Filed As

LA HB158

Provides for a limitation of liability relative to the administration of pandemic disease vaccinations

LA HB586

Provides for civil liability for actions related to fentanyl

LA SB154

Provides for renewable energy leases. (gov sig)

LA HB312

Provides relative to liability and damages resulting from carbon sequestration

LA HB455

Provides relative to rights in minerals

LA HB423

Provides relative to state and local sales and use taxes (OR INCREASE GF RV See Note)

LA HB379

Provides relative to liability associated with parades

LA HSR5

Requests a study of policies relative to the legal liabilities of computer service providers that book short-term rentals in violation of laws or contractual agreements

LA HB199

Provides relative to the State Licensing Board for Contractors

LA HB239

Provides relative to certain assets and transactions subject to the Uniform Commercial Code

Similar Bills

CA AB1139

Development permits: commercial shopping centers: pedestrian accessibility.

CA SB869

Commercial financing.

HI HB2492

Relating To Commercial Driver's Licenses.

HI SB3181

Relating To Commercial Driver's Licenses.

HI SB563

Relating To Commercial Tenant Protection.

HI HB759

Relating To Commercial Fishing.

HI SB1264

Relating To Commercial Fishing.

HI HB759

Relating To Commercial Fishing.