MassPINN are advocating for two provisions in any redraft of H3592: First, we would favor the outright prohibition of the sale to, or use of, four-wheel all-terrain vehicles OF ANY SIZE AND SPEED by children under the age of sixteen. Second, we would oppose any legislation that would substitute “training” or “education” programs for children, in lieu of an outright ban. We believe ATVs should be regulated in Massachusetts in the same fashion as personal watercraft.
After three years of hard work by our members, MassPINN is close to getting enacted the toughtest ATV regulation bill in the nation. The bill, now known as House Bill 4747, has been engrossed by both the House and Senate. Both House and Senate versions contain PINN’s language banning the use of ATVs by children under the age of 14. But since the bill contains a handful of amendments unrelated to child safety, it must be resolved, either in conference committee or on the floor of the Senate, before it can go to the Governor for his signature.
We hope and anticipate that the Legislature will resolve this matter by the end of July. Please stay tuned for any instructions that may emanate from our policy subcommittee.
MassPINN January 31, 2008 letter to Chairman Wagner
Consumer Product Safety Commission 2006 Annual Report of ATV-Related Deaths and Injuries. (Feb. 2008)
MassPINN works to raise ATV drivers age on WBZ TV, May 13, 2008. Mass. Tries to Raise ATV Driving Age
For more information on ATV safety: Concerned Families for ATV Safety