I'm happily out of

I'm happily out of touch with American culture. When I get a hint of what awaits me on repatriation, I am stunned and revolted.

Here's an excerpt from a liabilty waiver that US chapters of a non-profit organization have to sign for every event they attend:

"I have read or had read to me this Agreement and had an opportunity to have my questions answered. I have not been induced to grant this release by any representation or assurance by the organization or on its behalf. I hereby warrant that I am of full age and have the right to contract in my own name. I am fully familiar with the contents of this release. I understand the meaning and effect of this release, and intending to be legally bound, have signed the release."

Doesn't this sound like a paranoid lawyer read too much case law regarding waivers? Would you sign this? I'd would just walk away. Argh, it makes me sick.

I remember permission slips from when I was in grade school and in the Girl Scouts, but I don't recall anything as silly as this in any non-profit organization I've ever been a part of.