Virginia House Bill HB871

Virginia 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/9/24
• Refer: 1/9/24

Caption

Campgrounds; inherent risks, liability.

Impact

The enactment of HB 871 will have significant implications for state law, particularly concerning liability and personal injury claims in the context of outdoor recreational activities. By specifying that camping professionals are not liable for injuries stemming from inherent risks, the bill seeks to encourage more people to engage in camping, potentially boosting local tourism and outdoor recreation industries. This regulatory framework aims to balance the responsibilities of camping professionals while protecting them from lawsuits arising from participant injuries due to common camping risks.

Summary

House Bill 871 focuses on regulating the liability of camping professionals in Virginia. The bill amends the Code of Virginia to clarify that camping professionals cannot be held liable for injuries or deaths resulting from the inherent risks associated with camping activities, provided they post clear signage warning participants about these risks. The legislation defines key terms, including 'campground', 'camping professional', and 'inherent risks', establishing a framework intended to shield operators from legal action related to accidents that are a natural part of the camping experience.

Contention

However, the bill has raised concerns among some legislators and advocacy groups, who worry that it may limit the accountability of camping professionals. Critics argue that the legislation could discourage proper safety measures, as operators may feel less pressured to ensure camper safety, thereby putting participants at greater risk. The requirement for clear signage regarding risks may not sufficiently mitigate these concerns, as merely posting warnings does not guarantee participant safety or thorough risk management practices by operators.