New law introduces criminal liability for dangerous rides

Officials responsible for the operation of amusement rides will now be able to face criminal liability in the event of an incident leading to death or bodily injury. This was announced by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport and Communications Grozdan Karadjov, who presented the main goals of the bill prepared by his department.

On the air of "Nova TV", Minister Karadjov explained that until now, amusement activities were not legally regulated as a source of increased danger. This has hindered the criminal prosecution of managers and employees in the sector, as the Criminal Code only covers activities explicitly defined as such. With the new Bill on the General Safety Requirements for Providing Amusement Services that are a Source of Increased Danger, this legal gap will be filled.

“Hefty” fines and immediate suspension of activities

In addition to introducing criminal liability, the new law also provides for “hefty” fines for offenders. Minister Karadjov announced that a measure for the forced suspension of amusement activities is also being introduced. This administrative measure will be applied immediately in cases where there is a drastic violation of safety rules or an increased risk to the life and health of service users has been established. This is a critical change that allows for a quick response to potential dangers, preventing tragedies.

The bill was developed by the Ministry of Transport and Communications in an extremely short time—just one week. Nevertheless, Karadjov emphasized that the team is open to all criticism and suggestions, pointing out that the goal is

"to learn, to correct ourselves, to supplement"

Control over jet skis and ATVs

During the same interview, Grozdan Karadjov also commented on the regulation of other risky activities. Regarding ATVs, he was adamant that they are not an amusement ride but a motor vehicle and are regulated by the Road Traffic Act.

On the issue of jet skis, the Deputy Prime Minister announced that a new ordinance will be ready within days in cooperation with the Maritime Administration. It will introduce two key restrictions: individuals under 18 will not be allowed to operate jet skis, and the operation of these powerful machines will only be accessible to individuals with a captain's license.

These legislative initiatives come in response to public expectations for stricter control and greater responsibility in sectors where the safety of citizens is directly threatened. They are part of a series of measures aimed at guaranteeing security on both land and water, by introducing clear rules and increasing the legal responsibility of individuals who offer risky services.