Washington 2023-2024 Regular Session

Washington House Bill HB2480

Introduced
1/25/24  

Caption

Addressing the liability of owners or others in possession of land and water areas for injuries to recreational users.

Impact

The introduction of HB 2480 could significantly affect existing laws surrounding premises liability, which holds property owners responsible for accidents that happen on their property. By establishing clearer guidelines, the bill may serve to protect landowners, potentially reducing the number of lawsuits filed against them as a result of injuries sustained by recreational users. This change could encourage more landowners to make their properties available for public use without fear of excessive liability.

Summary

House Bill 2480 focuses on addressing the liability of landowners and others who possess land and water areas for injuries sustained by recreational users. The bill aims to clarify the responsibilities of property owners regarding the safety of individuals engaging in recreational activities on their land. This initiative reflects a growing concern over the extent of liability that landowners might incur if injuries occur on their properties during leisure activities, such as hiking, fishing, or boating.

Conclusion

Overall, HB 2480 presents an important shift in how state laws may govern the interactions between landowners and recreational users. It sets the stage for further discussions about liability and public safety, proposing a framework that could either fortify recreational opportunities or prompt a reevaluation of the responsibilities of landowners across the state.

Contention

Discussions surrounding HB 2480 reveal some notable points of contention among lawmakers and interest groups. Proponents argue that the bill will help to promote outdoor activities and improve public access to recreational areas by alleviating concerns related to liability. However, critics express that it may undermine accountability for landowners to maintain safe environments for recreational users, potentially leading to negligence and risky practices. The balance between encouraging public access and ensuring safety standards seems to be at the forefront of the debate.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

WA HB1412

Addressing foreign ownership of agricultural lands.

WA HB1514

Addressing the purchase and distribution of insignia to manufacturers of recreational vehicles and/or park trailers.

WA SB5521

Addressing the purchase and distribution of insignia to manufacturers of recreational vehicles and/or park trailers.

WA HB1585

Addressing local infrastructure project areas.

WA SB5145

Clarifying existing law regarding liability protections associated with public recreational use of lands or waters under a hydroelectric license issued by the federal energy regulatory commission.

WA HB1999

Concerning foreign ownership of agricultural land in Washington.

WA HB1334

Addressing the access of certain aquatic lands by a public transportation benefit area.

WA HB1753

Addressing threats of harm to children by modifying the child removal standard related to another person's use or possession of a high-potency synthetic opioid.

WA HB1054

Addressing the authority of owners' associations in common interest communities to regulate or limit occupancy by unrelated persons.

WA SB5292

Addressing the access of certain aquatic lands by a public transportation benefit area.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.