The Senate Committee on State Affairs met on February 27, 2017 to consider multiple pieces of legislation. This report covers only the discussion on SB 658, relating to a landowner’s liability for injuries incurred during recreational activities.
 
SB 658, Sen. Charles Perry – relating to a landowner’s liability for injuries incurred during recreational activities.

  • Amends Section 75.001(3) of the Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code to include ‘rock climbing’ as a recreational activity defined in statute.
  • Adding rock climbing as a recreational activity will allow Texas landowners an additional source of revenue by exploiting the state’s world-class rock climbing territory without risk of liability.

 
Public Testimony
Brian Tickle, Legislative Liaison for the Texas Access Fund

  • There are benefits across the board, to climbers, land owners and the state:
    • Climbers: Access to world-class climbing amenities.
    • Land Owners: An additional revenue source.  
    • The State: An increase in consumer spending.

 
SB 658 voted out (8-0)