RPTM 390Political and Legal Aspects of Recreation Services

3 credits · Recreation, Park, and Tourism Management · Penn State

The primary objective of this course is to examine the governmental systems that influence the delivery of recreational services. The formal structure of government is considered along with the day-to-day political processes that determine public policy. All three levels of government-federal, state, and local'are studied. Particular attention is given to the judicial systems of these governments. The course also gives considerable attention to tort liability by examining case law as it relates to recreation facilities and services. The course also explores federal and state laws pertaining to employer/employee relations and administrative responsibilities. Main topics include: The Court Systems, legislative branches; planning and development: historical perspective, land use, zoning, mandatory dedication, easements, building codes; liability: elements of negligence, situations giving rise to law suit, product liability, defenses & risk management, review; personnel laws; Federal laws, State Human Relations Acts, Civil Service, Hatch Act, FLSA, finance, garnishment & bankruptcy; the Americans with Disabilities Act; Public Relations Law: copyright, photography, lotteries, libel, slander, privacy; Administrative Law: purchasing, entrepreneurship, Federal Tax laws. This is a required course for all students majoring in Recreation, Park and Tourism Management. It is open to students of other majors, providing they have met the pre-requisite.