Legislation proponents say seeks to align Kentucky’s definition and classification of youth all-terrain vehicles with federal standards is making its way through the legislature.
The senate measure got unanimous backing Tuesday by the House Transportation Committee. Polaris Industries is a manufacturer of snowmobiles, ATV’s, and electric vehicles. Company Spokesman Mike Gentine says current Kentucky law classifies ATV’s on engine size, while the new standards regulate on speed. “We’re already selling to those guidelines and this just aligns state law in terms of its communication to parents on what the appropriate lines are for the vehicles they should be allowing their children to ride,” said Gentine.
House Transportation Committee Chair Ken Upchurch says the ATV industry is advocating for riders to be safe and adhere to manufacturer standards as a way of reducing injuries and fatalities. Upchurch admits that while a decision as to who can ride on ATVs is largely a parental decision, he adds that appropriate minimum standards of notification can properly inform parents of potential consequences. “My son has a youth Polaris Razer and it’s a two seater and got a roll bar, seatbelt, and a helmet. That’s what I require,” said Upchurch.
The bill is now up for final passage in the House.
