Parasailing Industry Backs Rule Changes

The Florida Senate is again considering new safety regulations for parasailing operators in the wake of high-profile deaths and accidents, the News Service of Florida reports. The past six years, the parasailing industry has opposed changes saying it would increase costs. But now, the Water Sports Industry Association supports rules that would prevent parasailing during high winds and when lightning is nearby. The Senate Regulated Industries Committee approved the proposal unanimously after watching video that captured an accident last year that seriously injured two teens in Panama City Beach. One of the teens, Alexis Fairchild of Indiana, told lawmakers her spine injuries and head trauma could have been prevented if safety rules had been in place.