V E R M O N T

The purpose of this Platform is to publicly state the positions of the Vermont Recreation and Park Association (VRPA) on a variety of issues facing community parks and recreation. This Platform will convey to legislators, policymakers, the public and the media where we stand. The Platform also will guide the association’s advocacy efforts.

STATE ISSUES & LEGISLATION PLATFORM

• Continued support and funding for the statewide LWCF Program at a minimum 50% allocation to local municipalities.
• Continued support for the grant funding of the Local Trees, Vermont Trails, and Recreation Facilities grant programs.
• Support legislation requiring inspection of public playground facilities by certified inspector, including compliance with national safety standards.
• Support inclusion of park and recreation grounds in legislation involving drug free zones and illegal trespass at school facilities.
• Support legislation making physical assault of sports coaches, and officials a criminal offense.
• Support legislation which proposes to permit adults to assume, for themselves and for their minor children, the risks inherent in recreational activities by releasing negligence claims arising out of the adult’s or minors participation in the activity.
• Support legislation to protect property of municipalities and State who allow recreational use of municipal and State lands.
• Support and partner with legislative efforts to improve the physical health conditions of citizens of Vermont through recreation activities and health initiatives.
• Support legislation that sets forth the standard of care for motor vehicles on a highway to pass and share the road with “vulnerable users”
• Support legislation that proposes to require the agency of transportation, in its transportation project planning, development, and implementation activities, to adhere to “complete streets principles"