88R2284 ADM-D
By: Ortega H.B. No. 194
A BILL TO BE ENTITLED
AN ACT
relating to safety requirements for amusement ride operators.
BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF TEXAS:
SECTION 1. Subchapter C, Chapter 2151, Occupations Code, is
amended by adding Section 2151.1013 to read as follows:
Sec. 2151.1013. RIDE OPERATOR SAFETY REQUIREMENTS. (a) In
this section:
(1) "Dispatcher" means a ride operator stationed at
the top of an elevated waterslide amusement ride to maintain order
and direct patrons to safely enter and depart the top of the slide.
(2) "Ride operator" means a person who directly
controls or has the duty to directly control the operation of an
amusement ride. The term does not include a certified lifeguard,
other than a certified lifeguard working as a dispatcher.
(b) A ride operator must be:
(1) at least 16 years of age; and
(2) trained in the proper use and operation of the
amusement ride the person is operating.
(c) A ride operator may not simultaneously operate more than
one amusement ride unless the operator is a dispatcher for adjacent
or proximate elevated waterslide amusement rides.
(d) A ride operator may not operate an amusement ride if the
operator's operation of the ride constitutes an offense under
Section 49.065, Penal Code.
SECTION 2. This Act takes effect September 1, 2023.