FINAL BILL REPORT

                           SSB 5145

                          C 203 L 93

                      SYNOPSIS AS ENACTED

Brief Description:  Regulating bungee jumping.

SPONSORS: Senate Committee on Labor & Commerce (originally sponsored by Senator Winsley)

SENATE COMMITTEE ON LABOR & COMMERCE

HOUSE COMMITTEE ON COMMERCE & LABOR

BACKGROUND:

The operation of bungee jumping devices is covered, in part, by existing statutes related to the inspection, permitting and insurance coverage requirements for amusement rides.

Bungee jumping devices operated at carnivals, fairs or amusement parks are required to be inspected and permitted before beginning operation.  Only bungee jumping devices that utilize a mechanical crane are subject to inspection and permitting requirements.

Bungee jumping devices operated on bridges, piers or other locations not specifically mentioned in statute are not required to be inspected or permitted.  Bungee jumping devices that do not utilize a mechanical crane are also not covered under current law.

Bungee jumping devices that have major parts such as the crane, man lift, bungee cord, or landing device replaced are not required to be inspected after replacement of such parts.

Bungee jumping operators subject to inspection and permitting requirements are charged a fee of $10 for each operating permit.

SUMMARY:

All bungee jumping devices are subject to the statutes related to the inspection, permitting and insurance coverage requirements for amusement rides.

All major parts of the bungee jumping device, including the crane, person lift, bungee cords and landing device must be inspected prior to beginning operation and on an annual basis thereafter.

Any major part of the bungee jumping device, including the crane, person lift, bungee cords and landing device, that is replaced must be inspected and permitted.

If the bungee jumping device is relocated, or if a new owner purchases the bungee jumping device, reinspection and permitting is required.

The Department of Labor and Industries may charge a fee of up to $100 for each permit issued to a bungee jumping operator.  Fees collected are deposited into the general fund.  Funds may be appropriated to the department to cover the costs of permitting and inspecting bungee jumping devices.

Permission must be granted by public or private owners of bridges, land or water before bungee jumping is allowed.

VOTES ON FINAL PASSAGE:

Senate    39   6

House     91   3    (House amended)

Senate    35   5    (Senate concurred)

EFFECTIVE:July 25, 1993