In the near future, we intend to introduce legislation designed to protect Pennsylvania’s robust outdoor recreation industry by expanding civil immunity and liability protections for designated off-road vehicle (OHV) parks and riding areas across the Commonwealth.
These facilities serve as designated, regulated environments where residents can safely and legally operate ATVs, dirt bikes, UTVs, Jeeps, rock crawlers, and other off-highway vehicles. Motorized recreation is a vital pillar of our state’s broader outdoor recreation sector, which contributes approximately $20.4 billion annually to Pennsylvania’s economy and supports over 177,000 jobs. The local impact on rural economies is undeniable; for example, a single recent ATV trail connector project generated more than $23.5 million in localized economic activity over just a two-year period.
Despite this immense economic contribution, off-road vehicle parks are currently facing an existential crisis due to skyrocketing liability insurance costs. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, insurance premiums for these operators have risen exponentially, currently consuming an average of $0.18 of every dollar of a facility’s gross revenue. In one documented Pennsylvania example, annual general liability insurance premiums increased from $21,430 in 2020 to $120,178 in 2026—a 461% increase in just six years. This crushing financial burden has already forced premier destinations, such as the Ben Franklin Range in Templeton, to permanently close their off-road riding area, while other facilities continue to face significant financial uncertainty. When nearly 20% of a small business’s gross revenue must be diverted strictly to cover liability insurance, the long-term viability of the entire industry is placed in immediate jeopardy.
Our upcoming legislation aims to remedy these operational challenges by establishing targeted civil liability protections that recognize the inherent risks naturally associated with off-road vehicle recreation. This framework will provide park operators with a stable, predictable legal environment similar to the statutory protections already enjoyed by Pennsylvania’s ski resorts and agritourism businesses. To ensure public safety and operator accountability, please note that this immunity will not apply in cases where a participant intentionally injures another individual or commits an act of gross negligence that proximately causes injury or death.
Ensuring the sustainability of these riding areas is imperative to preserving both our outdoor heritage and a key economic driver for our rural communities. We hope you will join us in safeguarding these small businesses and tourism assets by co-sponsoring this vital piece of legislation.