Lawmaker unveils plan better protecting carnival-goers

Representative Thomas Albert of Lowell today detailed legislation to better protect customers at fairs and carnival amusement centers. Albert says a Grand Rapids family that experienced tragedy at a local family center was influential in the drafting of this bill.

Two bills in the package will create voluntary programs within both the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) and Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) that businesses, state fairs and festivals may participate in. The programs will focus on recognizing businesses that place a high value on staff training and patron safety. Another bill will help ensure adequate funding for safety inspections.

“A constituent came to me last term with her story of a tragedy involving her sister at a family amusement center. We found that the state could be doing more to prevent accidents and emergency situations,” Albert said about his research into the issue. “The voluntary programs created under these bills, modeled after North Carolina law, will recognize the businesses who take great care to train their staff and ensure emergency situations are properly handled. These programs will signal to families which amusement centers and fairs go above and beyond to keep riders safe.”

Albert noted the programs should act as incentives for businesses, adding carnival-goers would prefer being customers at fairs and amusement parks that provide them the peace of mind knowing they are safe.

“We want to incentivize businesses to take rider safety and staff training more seriously. These programs will give recognition to amusement operators who meet the high standards set by the legislation,” Albert said of the programs. “Families will be able to recognize these businesses by the flags, banners and other materials that the state will provide for locations that meet the standards.”

Amusement centers with a gold star rating and fairs and festivals who partner with the state will be recognized on the State of Michigan’s website.

In addition to the creation of the Michigan Safety and Amusement Star Program and the Fair and Festival’s Partners Program, a third bill will gradually raise the fees paid by amusement ride and aerial lift operators. Albert says that current fees, which have not been raised since the 1960’s, underfunds the division that inspects the safety and operation of carnival rides by over $500,000 annually.  This is leading to permitting delays for carnival rides, which is both bad for business operators and patrons.

Albert says he is very grateful for the constituents who brought this issue to him and provided insight and guidance during the drafting process.

“This legislation shows how important it is to talk to your elected officials and advocate for change,” Albert said. “This family’s persistence and belief in their goal will make a meaningful difference in our state.”

The three bills in the package will be formally introduced in the Michigan House next week.

Photo Information: State Rep. Thomas Albert (seated), of Lowell submits new legislation to the House enrolling clerk on Thursday. Albert was joined by (from left) Corri Sandwick, Denis Kluba and Karen Kluba who inspired the proposal.