2024 Multi-state Legislative and Regulatory Mid-Year Update
While peak season kicks into high gear, state capitols across the nation are quieting down as legislative sessions conclude. Here is an update on IAAPA Public Affairs multi-state activities impacting the attractions industry.
46 states convened legislative sessions this year, and we closely monitored over 1,100 bills across policy areas. Labor and minimum wage proposals dominated the landscape, accounting for nearly two-thirds of our tracked bills. As mentioned in a previous update, many of those bills served as placeholders for future negotiations rather than serious consideration right now.
From one-size-fits-all heat safety standards in New Jersey to operational regulations for family entertainment centers, our efforts spanned the diverse interests of our members. We collaborated with local partners, solicited input from relevant stakeholders, and advocated for common-sense policies benefiting attractions professionals like you.
On the regulatory front, our work yielded tangible results. In Oregon, we successfully reduced the minimum age for ride operators from 18 to 16. In Colorado, we actively participated in five stakeholder meetings ahead of amusement ride regulation rewrites. And in Florida, we joined forces with partners to shape the rulemaking process for last year's amusement ride legislation.
Multi-state Legislative Trends
Staying ahead of evolving trends is crucial for our industry's continued success. Over the past six months, we've closely monitored emergent legislative patterns that warrant your attention. Two broader legislative trends continued their spread across the states: artificial intelligence (AI) and consumer data privacy.
On AI, a total of 633 bills were introduced across 45 states, with 51 being enacted into law. Many focused on preventing manipulated images related to public safety and elections. However, Colorado and several other states have begun enacting comprehensive legislation that addresses AI usage more broadly. As AI becomes increasingly integrated into our everyday lives, state legislatures will continue taking the lead in regulating this rapidly evolving technology.
Consumer data privacy legislation also remained active, albeit slightly slower than the previous year when seven states passed new laws. However, with no federal standard coming anytime soon, more states are expected to follow suit and those changes may impact how you use guest data.
This year also saw two emerging areas receive legislative attention specifically to the attractions industry: opioid antagonist requirements and restrictions on wagering activities. Their spread will need to be monitored and potentially adjusted depending on what language is introduced.
Following California's law requiring large venues to stock opioid-blocking doses, states like New York and Louisiana have proposed similar measures to combat overdoses or dispense life-saving medication. As the opioid crisis persists, expect more states to mandate such precautions at entertainment facilities, including attractions.
Finally, the rise of sports betting has brought legislative attention to its inclusion in the attractions industry. Illinois lawmakers have filed a bill prohibiting any wagering at venues like family entertainment centers. As sports betting continues to expand, more states may limit its presence at certain attraction types.
2024 State Elections
Beyond this year’s federal elections, voters will also elect 164 statewide office holders, including 11 governors, 7,386 state legislators across 86 legislative chambers, and 82 state supreme court justices. Additionally, states have so far certified 80 statewide ballot measures that voters will decide whether to approve or reject on November 5. While presidential election years often overshadow state and local elections, it is crucial to remember the significance of these down-ballot races and their potential impact on your facilities. As industry professionals, it's vital to engage with and support candidates who understand our sector's unique challenges and have demonstrated a commitment to policies that foster the growth and success of attractions in your communities.
Register Now for the 2024 IAAPA Public Affairs Conference
Taking place at the renowned Sofitel hotel in Washington, D.C., just steps from the White House, on September 10-11, 2024. This interactive 2-day event will dive into policy issues affecting the attractions industry through panel discussions, informative sessions, and Capitol Hill meetings.
In this tight and ever-changing presidential race, we're excited to announce our keynote speaker, David Wasserman, world-renowned election analyst from The Cook Political Report. You've seen him on NBC News, Fox News, CNN, C-SPAN, and NPR—now experience his razor-sharp insights live and in person. Hear his real-time updates and unparalleled analysis on the state of the election – from the White House to your hometown.
New this year! An optional Advocate Bootcamp on Sept. 9 for first-time attendees and those seeking a refresher on Capitol Hill advocacy. View the event agenda here.
2024 North America Economic Impact Survey – Deadline to Complete: July 15, 2024
Eligible facility operators, we need your input on the 2024 Economic Impact Study! This study highlights direct and indirect economic impacts of the attractions industry in our region, covering both the United State and Canada as well as select states and provinces. Key measurements include estimated attraction attendance, revenue impacts, taxes paid, employment and employee compensation among all facility types. This information is vital during conversations with policymakers to show the true impact that we have in our communities. We encourage all our facility operators to fill out the North America survey here.
Stay tuned for further updates, and as always, we appreciate your advocacy on behalf of the attractions industry!