Minn. Gov. Vetoes Cave Accident Bill

Minnesota Governor Tim Pawlenty has vetoed his first bill of the 2004 legislative session, House File 1861, a bill that limits liability for private landowners of properties used for rock climbing and cave exploration.

“In light of the deaths this week in a St. Paul cave, this is an issue we should not take lightly,” said Pawlenty. “We’ve seen first-hand the dangers involved in cave exploration. This bill could decrease precautions necessary to avoid tragedy in the future.”

Current law limits liability for landowners of property used for “recreational purposes” defined as nature study and viewing or enjoying historical, archaeological, scenic or scientific sites.

The bill the Governor vetoed would have expanded that definition to include rock climbing and cave exploration.