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Bill

HB 114

AN ACT relating to landowner liability for recreational use permission.

2025 Regular Session

Kentucky expands landowner liability immunity for recreational property use, reducing legal exposure for owners who permit hunting, fishing, and outdoor activities on their land.

signed by Governor (Acts Ch. 133)
#amusementsandrecreation #athletics #civilactions #economicdevelopment #landuse #tourism
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 114

Legislative bill overview

HB 114 modifies Kentucky's recreational use immunity statute to expand liability protections for landowners who allow others to use their property for recreational purposes. The bill adjusts the conditions under which landowners can be held responsible for injuries occurring on their land during recreational activities like hunting, fishing, or hiking. It has already been signed into law as Acts Chapter 133.

Why is this important

This law directly affects how Kentucky courts handle injury lawsuits involving private property. Landowners may face reduced legal exposure when permitting recreational access, which could encourage more property owners to open their land to public use. Conversely, individuals injured on private property during recreational activities may find it harder to recover damages, even in cases of significant negligence.

Potential points of contention

  • Balance between property rights and injury victim protections: Expanding landowner immunity may limit remedies for people seriously injured due to reckless or negligent conditions on private property
  • Access equity concerns: While intended to increase recreational opportunities, the liability shield may disproportionately benefit wealthy landowners with large tracts, potentially creating unequal access patterns
  • Scope of "recreational use" definition: Ambiguity in what activities qualify for immunity could lead to litigation over whether specific incidents fall under the law's protections

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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