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Sponsor pitches bill to require large parks to publish real‑time ride status; committee presses operational concerns
Summary
Representative Brennan told the Agriculture Committee HB 488 would require large amusement parks to publish real‑time ride availability on public platforms and apps, aiming to improve consumer experience; members questioned whether the market could solve the problem and whether parks were consulted.
Representative Brennan presented House Bill 488, which would require large, permanent amusement parks to make real‑time ride status available on publicly accessible digital platforms and apps so guests can see whether specific rides are operational before arrival. Brennan framed the bill as consumer‑protection and customer‑service legislation, not a regulation of maintenance or safety decisions.
Brennan said parks already collect the relevant data and that models like Disney's app demonstrate feasibility; he argued that transparency can improve customer planning and satisfaction and said he hopes industry will act voluntarily but that legislation may be necessary if parks do not share the data. "This bill addresses that frustration," Brennan said, describing guests who learn a ride is closed only after they arrive.
Vice Chair Newman, Representative Schmidt and others asked how the issue was raised, whether free‑market forces could produce the same result, whether parks and industry have been consulted, and how the mandate would exclude smaller events such as county fairs. Brennan said he had met with industry representatives who oppose a mandate and is drafting an amendment to keep county fairs out of scope; he reiterated his preference for voluntary compliance but said the law could spur industry change.
No votes occurred; the committee completed a first hearing.
