Senate proposal for Tyre Sampson Safety Act to enhance amusement ride safety standards

Senate Proposal Seeks to Strengthen Amusement Ride Safety in Wake of Tragic Incident

Following the tragic death of Tyre Sampson, a 14-year-old boy who lost his life in a fatal amusement ride accident in Orlando last year, Senator Geraldine Thompson, D-Windermere, has introduced a proposal aimed at enhancing the safety of amusement rides. The proposal, named in honor of the victim, seeks to revise existing inspection standards and introduce new requirements for ride operators.

The proposed bill, SB 902, will be presented for consideration during the upcoming legislative session, which is scheduled to begin on March 7th. If passed, the bill would require permanent rides to submit a “commissioning and certification report” before receiving operating permits, certifying that they have been designed, manufactured, installed, and tested to meet design criteria.

Moreover, the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services will be empowered to conduct unannounced inspections, ensuring ride operators comply with safety regulations. The bill will also permit independent testing by labs affiliated with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, providing an extra layer of protection to ensure the safety of the public.

The proposed amendments aim to address critical safety gaps and protect the public from harm, thereby restoring public trust in the safety and security of amusement rides. As the state moves closer to the legislative session, Floridians eagerly await the outcome of this crucial bill.