site.btaParliament Passes Amusement Services Safety Bill

Parliament adopted, at first and second readings in a single sitting, a bill on general safety requirements in the provision of amusement services representing a source of increased danger, the Government Press Service reported on Wednesday. Under the new legislation, any person intending to provide amusement services that constitute a source of increased danger will be required, prior to commencing operations, to submit a standard notification to the Minister of Tourism for entry into a public register. 

The bill was supported by 125 MPs at first reading and by 129 at second reading, with one MP abstaining.

The right to provide such services will arise as of the date of entry into the register. The law also introduces a requirement for mandatory accident insurance for persons using amusement services.

Control over facilities, equipment and gear, including protective equipment used in the provision of amusement services representing a source of increased danger, will be carried out by accredited bodies.

Sports tourism activities and services regulated under the Physical Education and Sports Act are excluded from the scope of the law.

The bill aims to introduce regulations following the tragic accident on August 18, 2025, when an eight-year-old child died in an accident involving a parachute towed by a motorboat at the southern beach in Nessebar. On August 20, Karadjov identified a lack of clear legal regulation of parasailing, parachute jumping, paragliding and similar activities organized on a commercial basis. On August 22, the Government started preparing new regulations to introduce clear responsibilities and safety requirements for operators of amusement and attraction services.  Karadjov said the framework will define mandatory safety, training and certification for operators and instructors, emergency readiness, medical coverage and compulsory insurance for users.