Senate Bill 1593, sponsored by Senator Mark Meek, will sensibly reform recreation liability waivers and bring Oregon in alignment with all other Western states.
Tualatin Riverkeepers believes that one of the best ways for our community to become civically engaged is to get outside and enjoy the river. Facilitating on-the-water experiences develops community interest in protecting natural spaces and highlights Oregon’s unique beauty. Reforming recreation liability waiver standards in OR ensures our recreation and restoration programs remain affordable, accessible, and legally sustainable.
Current Waivers Are Null
A state Supreme Court decision in 2014 (Bagley v. Mt. Bachelor) effectively nullified Oregon liability waivers. Oregon businesses are now paying significantly more for liability insurance than other western states.
Recreation Outfitters Unprotected
Operators may be liable for accidental injuries even when a recreationist or volunteer signed a waiver, was engaged in risky activity, and the accident was not the result of reckless disregard or willful conduct by the operator.
Preserve Recreational Opportunities
The proposed reform will enact the well-established legal framework that exists in every other western state in Oregon law. That is, legal waivers can be signed that hold individuals engaged in inherently risky activities responsible for their actions, while businesses will remain accountable for behavior that is reckless or willful. This is the balanced standard that existed in Oregon before the court rulings, and it will ensure consumers have affordable access to recreation and fitness options.
Protect Vital Jobs and Tax Revenue
In 2022, outdoor recreation in Oregon supported $16 billion in spending at businesses throughout the state and supported 192,000 full and part-time jobs in Oregon, associated with $8.2 billion in wages and other compensation.
Investing in Oregonians Health
Access to recreation, especially health clubs and gyms, is essential to increasing the health and well-being of Oregonians across the state. Whether they are participating in after-school sports teams, working out in health clubs or enjoying Oregon’s forests and rivers, it is essential we preserve access to recreation for all of our community.
Keep Recreation Affordable
In 2025, Timberline Lodge announced an increase in lift tickets as a result of a 586% increase in their liability insurance since 2020.
Support Rural Economies
While recreation providers generate benefits across the state, they are particularly important in rural communities that rely on tourism. Without a vibrant recreation sector, many of the small businesses that hold these communities together will disappear.
