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Panel advances bill giving police tools to address minibike 'gang' behavior while sponsor agrees to narrow scope
Summary
The committee voted 4–1 to advance a substitute of HB 561, which would allow law enforcement to treat pocket/minibikes similarly to motorcycles in specified circumstances. Members urged narrowing definitions, adding speed thresholds and tailoring impound rules so enforcement targets problem behaviors without criminalizing ordinary youth activity.
Representative Matthews presented House Bill 561, a refiled measure aimed at making it easier for law enforcement to address hazardous minibike use by minors. The sponsor said the bill focuses on pocket mini motorcycles and excludes mopeds and off‑highway vehicles; language is drafted so officers may treat the vehicles similarly to motorcycles in enforcement.
Committee members raised concerns about breadth and unintended consequences. Senator Brammer urged…
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