Recently, the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture issued a variance for hayride attractions from the requirement that a registered engineer certify such rides, but those attractions would still need to register with the Department and meet other standards, such as insurance coverage and inspection by a qualified person. After an inquiry from Pennsylvania Farm Bureau, the Department confirmed they will not perform enforcement actions of hayrides until 2023, and the Department is open to suggestions on other changes to technical safety standards.
The Department of Agriculture has the ability to regulate hayride attractions under the Amusement Ride Inspection Act. However, until recently, there has not been national standards for the inspection of hayride attractions. After ASTM, an international standards organization, developed those technical standards, the Department of Agriculture started informing operators of those standards and the related requirements under the Amusement Ride Inspection Act.
The Department’s decision to start enforcement in 2023 will give operators time to adjust to these standards, and also for suggestions to be made. Pennsylvania Farm Bureau is reviewing these standards and will continue to work with the Department on possible changes, or legislative solutions, as necessary.