Wisconsin Bill Would Allow Children to Drive More Powerful ATVs

Wisconsin Republicans are pushing a bill that would allow children under 12 to drive more powerful all-terrain vehicles on state trails.

Right now, children under 12 can drive an ATV or a utility terrain vehicle on private property under adult supervision. They can’t drive on roadways but can drive small ATVs, defined as an ATV with an engine that’s no more than 90 cubic centimeters, on Department of Natural Resources trails under adult supervision.

The bill would change the definition of small ATVs to ATVs with engines no larger than 130 cubic centimeters.

Sen. Sheila Harsdorf, a Hudson Republican, is the bill’s chief Senate sponsor. She says ATV manufacturers are phasing out 90 cc engines and offering larger models for children.

The Assembly’s natural resources committee is set to vote on the bill Jan. 6.