Committee tentatively backs wider ATV width allowance, asks for technical cleanup of off‑road vehicle definitions

The committee reviewed a proposed change to state law that would raise the width threshold for all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) from 5 feet 4 inches to 6 feet to accommodate newer, wider models manufacturers now sell.

Committee members and DMV staff said the change is intended to match evolving product design and safety improvements rather than expand off-road access. DMV and the ATV advocacy group testified in favor of the measure, and members noted enforcement has been uneven partly because few agencies measure vehicle width in the field.

Why it matters: The change affects which vehicles qualify as ATVs under state law and therefore how they are regulated on roads and trails. Lawmakers also raised a related drafting issue: the statute includes a provision referencing “2‑wheel ATVs” that requires permanent full-time power to both wheels. Committee members were uncertain what was intended by that phrase and whether it overlaps awkwardly with the statutory definition of motorcycles or off‑highway motorcycles.

Key details: - Width change: Draft raises the maximum width threshold from 64 inches (5'4") to 72 inches (6'). The stated policy aim is to accommodate larger, more stable ATVs available on the market. - Definitions and clarity: The statute currently defines ATVs by several elements (non-highway recreational vehicle, low-pressure tires, wheel counts, and width). The committee asked DMV general counsel to consider technical corrections to clarify the separate clauses and to confirm whether a 'two‑wheel ATV' reference is intended to capture off‑highway motorcycles that have front- and rear-wheel drive.

Committee action and next steps: Members generally supported the policy change to reflect equipment changes but asked staff to follow up with DMV counsel to tidy statute language and return with a technical cleanup proposal. No final vote was taken.