The state House of Representatives approved a bill this afternoon that grants limited legal immunity to municipalities that open their undeveloped land to the public for recreational use.
At the start of the legislative session back in January, the measure looked to generate significant controversy, pitting the state's trial lawyers against bicyclists, hikers, and municipal leaders fearful of lawsuits.
Yet when the vote was taken, it was 142 to 1. Andrew Fleischmann, a Democrat from West Hartford, the sole "no vote,'' said he was concerned about cases of negligence.
The lopsided vote -- and the fact that the bill had 80 cosponsors -- can be attributed to a compromise worked out last month that would still hold municipalities liable if they are found negligent in maintaining recreational facilities such as playgrounds and ball fields.
"This bill contains fair compromises that were addressed by multiple parties,'' said Rep. David Baram of Bloomfield, the measure's chief proponent. "I believe this bill is fair to all parties.''