South Dakota Panel Moves to Further Regulate Amusement Rides

The President of the Thunder Road attractions is behind a bill to further regulate amusement rides in South Dakota.

Organization president and Republican Sen. Al Novstrup of Aberdeen co-sponsored the measure.

The South Dakota Commerce Committee voted 6-1 to pass it Tuesday. It already has been approved by the House and now goes to the full Senate.

Owners of mobile amusement rides are already required to have insurance. The bill would require yearly, certified inspections and daily inspections by the operator.

The bill also includes a list of rider requirements. Riders may not ride attractions under the influence of alcohol, for example.

Novstrup says riders are responsible for 90 percent of accidents.

No opponents spoke at Tuesday’s hearing. Opponents in the House say the bill involves too much oversight.

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