Iowa Lawmakers Back Measure Protecting Cities from Sledding Claims

Lawmakers in the Iowa Senate and House have approved legislation that would protect cities from liability if people are injured while sledding in public parks.

The bill passed 48-0 in the Iowa Senate. It passed in the House last week. Current law protects cities from liability when people are injured skateboarding or biking, but it doesn’t include a sledding protection. This bill would change the language to provide protection from injuries sustained during “recreational activities,” which means sledding would be covered.

Some Iowa cities have banned sledding in public parks over concern about liability if people get hurt.

When asked whether Gov. Terry Branstad will sign the bill, spokesman Jimmy Centers said the governor will carefully review it before making a decision.