TITLE: Relating to safety requirements for amusement ride operators.

SUMMARY: Relating to safety requirements for amusement ride operators.

FULL TEXT:
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, direct patrons departing the top of the slide, and ensure patrons begin the ride safely. (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, 2021.