Bill in Legislature could help out free recreation sites

SALEM, Ore. (AP) – A bill in the Oregon Senate would expand protections from lawsuits stemming from mishaps on properties that are popular with outdoors enthusiasts.

In 2016, the Oregon Supreme Court noted that a law shields owners of free recreation sites from lawsuits if someone gets hurt, but not employees.

A bill that is backed by the League of Oregon Cities would extend that protection to such agents.

The 2016 court ruling has resulted in the closing of Redmond’s Maple Avenue Bridge climbing area and a motocross track in the northeast Oregon town of Pilot Rock.