Rhode Island House Bill H7761

Rhode Island 2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/12/26
• Refer: 2/12/26

Caption

Changes the definition of owner to exclude the state and municipalities for the purposes of liability limitations relating to public use of private lands.

Impact

The impact of H7761 on state laws will primarily be felt in the area of liability management for public land use. By removing the state and municipalities from the definition of owner, the bill aims to reduce the legal risks associated with public access to private land. This could encourage more landowners to open their properties for recreational use, as they may feel less exposure to lawsuits from individuals engaging in activities such as camping, hiking, or fishing. However, this change could lead to concerns over user safety and the standard of care expected from private landowners who allow public access.

Summary

House Bill H7761 relates to parks and recreational areas by amending the definition of 'owner' under the existing law concerning public use of private lands and liability limitations. The main purpose of this bill is to exempt the state and municipalities from being considered 'owners' in the context of liability for individuals who use private land for recreational activities. This legislative change could result in altering the responsibilities of land owners and the protections afforded to users engaging in recreational activities.

Contention

One notable point of contention surrounding H7761 relates to the potential risks for users of private lands. Opponents may express concern that removing liability protections for public access could lead to unsafe conditions and reduce accountability for landowners. Moreover, there are discussions about balancing the needs for increased public recreational spaces against the rights of private property owners. Further scrutiny may be needed to ensure that adequate protections remain in place for both landowners and users in the wake of this legislative change.