Governor Signs Bill Allowing Kids to Drive Larger ATVs

MADISON, Wis. (AP) — Gov. Scott Walker has signed a bill that would allow young children to drive more powerful ATVs on state trails.

The bill's Republican authors, Sen. Sheila Harsdorf and Rep. Adam Jarchow, say the bill is designed to continue to allow small children to drive ATVs as manufacturers phase out smaller models.

Under current state law, children under 12 can drive ATVs on private property with adult supervision. They can't drive ATVs on roadways, but they can drive small ATVs, defined as ATVs with engines no larger than 90 cubic centimeters, on state trails if accompanied by an adult. The bill would redefine small ATVs as ATVs with engines no larger than 130 cc.

Walker signed the measure privately on Tuesday.