§ 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.