ORLANDO, Fla. — Legislation meant to improve safety standards for amusement rides in Florida was signed into law by Governor Ron DeSantis Thursday.
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The “Tyre Sampson Act” was named for the 14-year-old boy who died after he fell from the Orlando FreeFall attraction at ICON Park last year.
The law requires more oversight of ride adjustments, signage and training at smaller amusement parks such as ICON Park.
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The Tyre Sampson Act, a law aiming to increase safety at Florida theme parks and attractions, will go into effect on July 1st! This bill will thankfully PREVENT deaths like Tyre’s by requiring signs for height and weight capacities, reporting on ride modifications, and more! 👏🏾
— Ben Crump (@AttorneyCrump) May 12, 2023
Sen. Geraldine Thompson (D-Orlando) filed the bill back in February.
It also imposes stricter documentation requirements for when a ride is modified, unannounced inspections, requirements to post weight restrictions, and a further prohibition on changing a ride beyond its recommended manufacturer settings.
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Operators violating the rules would be suspended for varying amounts of time.
The law goes into effect on July 1.
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The 430-foot tower was permanently closed in 2022 and dismantled in March
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