A Massachusetts Congressman is speaking out about the incident that took Sgt. James Hackemer's life by falling from a roller coaster.
Democrat Edward Markey supports a bill he says will close loopholes and bring federal oversight with the consumer product safety commission in to inspect amusement parks.
"It is outrageous that despite the increasing speed and force of so-called 'hypercoasters' like the one that claimed Sergeant Hackemer's life, a loophole in current law prevents the Consumer Product Safety Commission from overseeing these fixed site amusement park rides. So while the government's safety watchdog has the authority to ensure baby strollers are safe, it can't oversee the safety of high-speed amusement park rides. Instead, the responsibility falls to state governments that may not have the resources or experience to carry out effective safety checks. This regulatory black hole makes no sense," says Markey.
"I have consistently introduced legislation to close this dangerous loophole, but the amusement park ride industry pulls out all the stops to prevent it from moving forward in Congress. While the cause of the accident that claimed the life of Sergeant Hackemer is still unknown, one thing is crystal clear: hypercoasters that hurtle riders at speeds exceeding 70 mph along 200-foot drops should not be exempt from federal safety oversight. I will continue to push for stronger safety standards, including legislation to enable the Consumer Product Safety Commission to investigate rides when accidents occur so that tragedies can be prevented in the future."
Right now, the State Labor Department is in charge of inspecting rides like the Ride of Steel Coaster. They inspect rides at amusement parks once a year - usually before they open for the season.
And according to the Darien Lake website, the Ride of Steel only has height, weight and body type requirements.... while other roller coasters in the park do require riders to have both legs.
Congressman Markey also released a statement to the family of Sgt. James Hackemer.
"Sergeant Hackemer was a hero. Following a courageous battle to recover from his wounds suffered during the Iraq War, he was enjoying a summertime activity like many Americans across the country when this tragedy occurred. My condolences go out to his family and friends."