Politics
Politics

After rounds through the Capitol, Senate passes carnival safety bill

Courtney Schumann and Nesto Lovato enjoy the Pharaoh’s Fury ride at The Mighty Thomas Carnival on Saturday. The carnival continues at Dell Diamond through Saturday. Henry Huey photo for the Leader
Courtney Schumann and Nesto Lovato enjoy the Pharaoh’s Fury ride at The Mighty Thomas Carnival on Saturday. The carnival continues at Dell Diamond through Saturday. Henry Huey photo for the Leader
By
March 30, 2017

After a whirlwind through the Georgia Legislature, a bill that would require carnival owners to submit engineering evaluations with permit applications passed the state Senate on Thursday.

State Sen. Bruce Thompson, R-White, introduced Senate Bill 141 after a carnival ride collapsed while in operation in Bartow County.

Under the legislation, a licensed engineer would evaluate the performance of safety mechanisms and the condition of “critical components of the carnival ride.” House members amended the bill to only require a review the first time a carnival owner applies for a permit.

The bill, which passed 50-0, now goes to the governor’s desk.

About the Author

Michelle Baruchman covers the Georgia House of Representatives and statewide issues. She is a politics news and enterprise reporter covering statewide political stories.

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