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Zip Line Regulation One Step Away from Final Passage

Dave Broberg, 123rf Stock Photo

Legislation to implement state regulation of the zip line industry is moving through the Kentucky General Assembly. The measure is proposed to help ensure consistency in construction, training, and rider safety. 

The measure won the backing of the Senate Agriculture Committee Tuesday.

Bill Sponsor Louisville Representative Jeff Donohue says it was requested by zip line operators. “You’re suspending 50, 75, a hundred feet up in the air. There has to be some consistent regulation. What this industry has said is that we do have some bad actors in this thing,” Donohue says.

Donohue says zip line inspections and administrative fees would be borne by the operators. He says this type of recreational attraction could bolster revenues at state parks that choose to offer zip lines.

Senate Majority Floor Leader Damon Thayer cast a no vote in committee. “Do we have to regulate everything? You know, if it moves, tax it. If it moves, regulate it. Does government have to be involved in everything?" Thayer says.

Harlan Hatter, with the state agriculture department, says above ground wire rides do not always involve zip lines. “I’ve even seen pictures of one where they have suspended a canoe from a wire. I think the idea is that you pull yourself in this canoe over the wire and one where there is a tandem bicycle on a wire and I guess you’re supposed to ride that like a circus bear," Hatter says.

Hatter told committee members bungee type operations are currently regulated as an amusement ride.

The bill heads to the Senate floor.

Stu Johnson is a reporter/producer at WEKU in Lexington, Kentucky.
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