2009 Highlights - Nearly half of states enacted laws between 2007-09

Thousands of Americans responsibly use off-road vehicles (ORVs) for work and recreation and have a right to do so. But a growing number of reckless riders damage public and private land, get themselves hurt, burden law enforcement, and ruin hunting, fishing and hiking experiences for the rest of us. Their actions are creating a backlash from sportsmen, property owners, ranchers, law enforcement officials, safety advocates, and taxpayers tired of paying to clean up the mess from irresponsible riders.

Since the start of 2007, 23 states enacted laws to address ORV law enforcement and management gaps. In 2009 alone, 11 states enacted 14 new laws. In total, 36 states considered 84 pieces of legislation in 2009 that address reckless riding, including: supporting law enforcement, protecting hunting and fishing, stopping private property damage, and improving safety. Of these proposals:

• 50 addressed ORV law enforcement gaps with measures such as tougher penalties for reckless riding, increased funding and license plates;
• 21 moved to protect private property owners through tougher laws for property damage and excessive noise;
• 41 targeted ORV safety issues, especially child riders;
• 23 worked to protect ORV-threatened or damaged wildlife habitat.