Provide a forum for discussion of issues regarding amusement equipment safety, administration, regulation, and enforcement at all levels of government;

Provide a mechanism to establish policy and coordinate Council activities regarding amusement equipment safety on national and international levels;

Promote consensus on model laws, regulations, standards codes, enforcement, and administrative procedures among jurisdictions; and

Foster cooperation among regulatory officials and amusement equipment industries to promote public safety.

CARES is voluntary organization of chief government officials who are responsible for the enforcement of amusement ride and recreational equipment regulations within their jurisdiction. 

Founded in 1996, CARES has grown to the current membership of 25 U.S. states, 1 U.S. county, and 2 Canadian provinces, and includes the informal participation of the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission as well.