§ 866. Declaration of legislative findings. The legislature hereby finds that alpine or downhill skiing is both a major recreational sport and a major industry within the state of New York. The legislature further finds: (a) that downhill skiing, like many other sports, is not without some inherent risks; (b) that downhill skiing, without established rules of conduct and care, may result in injuries to persons and property; and (c) that it is necessary and appropriate, as well as in the public interest, to take steps to protect downhill skiers from undue, unnecessary and unreasonable hazards, and to encourage and promote safety in the downhill ski industry.

It is, therefore, the intent of this article to create and provide for the promulgation of a code of conduct for downhill skiers and ski area operators which will minimize the risk of injury to persons and property engaged in the sport of downhill skiing.