Bill > HB565

This bill modifies Missouri's existing law regarding liability for equine and livestock activities by providing clear definitions and protections for activity sponsors, professionals, owners, and facilities. The bill defines various terms such as "equine activity" (which includes shows, competitions, training, and riding), "livestock activity" (including grazing, herding, and auctions), and "inherent risks" (such as an animal's unpredictable behavior or potential participant negligence). Under the new law, equine and livestock activity sponsors generally cannot be held liable for injuries or deaths resulting from the inherent risks of these activities. However, liability can still be established in specific circumstances, such as when equipment is knowingly faulty, when reasonable efforts are not made to assess a participant's ability to safely engage in the activity, when a known dangerous condition exists without proper warning, or when there is willful disregard for participant safety. The bill requires activity sponsors to post warning signs and include specific liability disclaimers in written contracts. Importantly, the law does not apply to the horse racing industry or employer-employee relationships governed by workers' compensation laws.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Government Affairs

https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB565&year=2025&code=R