19E779702E72BADF872586A2007FF72C Hearing Summary

The committee recessed.

The committee returned to order. Representative Soper, prime sponsor, presented House Bill 21-1089, concerning legal responsibilities surrounding wakeboarders' use of a wakeboard park. Representative provided background on wakeboarding. Representative Soper screened a short video on wakeboarding. Representative Soper explained the effect of the bill and discussed its need. Representative Soper responded to questions regarding liability at other water-based recreational facilities as compared to a wakeboarding facility, and why current tort law is not sufficient for wakeboard facilities.

The following persons testified regarding HB 21-1089:

Christopher Koupal, representing the Colorado Trial Lawyers Association, testified in opposition to the bill.

Jennifer O'Connell, representing the Colorado Trial Lawyers Association, testified in support of the bill.

Ms. O'Connell and Mr. Koupal responded to questions regarding the burdens of current tort law, and how it might be applied to wakeboard parks.

Victor Imondi, representing Imondi Wake Zone LLC, testified in support of HB 21-1089.

Kodi Imondi, representing Imondi Wake Zone LLC, testified in support of HB 21-1089.

Mike Olson, representing himself testified in support of the bill.

Mr. Imondi responded to questions regarding the number of wakeboard parks in Colorado, and how a wakeboard park operates. Mr. Imondi responded to further questions regarding why there are not more wakeboard parks in Colorado, and fears that his operation might be subjected to a liability lawsuit. Mr. Olson responded to questions regarding insurance issues experienced by wakeboard parks, and other jurisdictions entertaining legislation similar to HB 21-1089.

No amendments were offered to HB 21-1089. Representative Soper provided closing remarks in support of the bill. Various committee members discussed the merits of the legislation.