TITLE: Relating to safety requirements for a person directly operating an amusement ride.

SUMMARY: Relating to safety requirements for a person directly operating an amusement ride.

FULL TEXT:
AN ACT relating to safety requirements for a person directly operating an amusement ride. 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. AMUSEMENT RIDE ATTENDANT SAFETY REQUIREMENTS. (a) In this section: (1) "Dispatcher" means a ride operator stationed at the top of an elevated waterslide to maintain order, direct patrons on when to depart the top of the slide, and ensure patrons begin the ride safely. (2) "Ride operator" means a person actually engaged in the control of an amusement ride or directly controlling an amusement ride. The term does not include a certified lifeguard, other than a certified lifeguard working as a dispatcher, on a water-based amusement ride. (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 operate more than one amusement ride simultaneously unless the operator is working as a dispatcher for adjacent or proximate elevated waterslides. (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, 2019.