Bill > A02320

This bill amends the New York General Obligations Law to limit property owners' liability in two key areas: agricultural and recreational uses, and equine (horse-related) activities. First, the bill expands protections for property owners with undeveloped land or agricultural land, ensuring they are not legally responsible for injuries that occur during recreational activities like hunting, fishing, hiking, or agricultural product picking, unless there is gross negligence or intentional harm. Second, the bill introduces the "Equine Activity Safety Code Act," which shields equine activity sponsors, professionals, and property owners from liability for injuries resulting from the inherent risks of horse-related activities, such as unpredictable animal behavior or surface conditions. The bill requires equine professionals to post warning signs and include liability disclaimers in contracts, specifying that participants engage in these activities at their own risk. These changes are designed to encourage landowners to make their properties available for recreational and agricultural purposes by reducing their potential legal exposure, while still maintaining some accountability for egregious safety failures.

Justice

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A2320