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Wisconsin aims to eliminate the registration loophole for off-road vehicles, such as UTVs and ATVs, from out-of-state

Wisconsin seeks to end registration loophole for utility terrain vehicles (UTV) and all-terrain vehicles (ATV) from out-of-state - The Black Chronicle (paraphrased)

Wisconsin aims to abolish registration loophole for UTVs and ATVs originating from outside the...
Wisconsin aims to abolish registration loophole for UTVs and ATVs originating from outside the state

Wisconsin aims to eliminate the registration loophole for off-road vehicles, such as UTVs and ATVs, from out-of-state

In Wisconsin, a bill is being proposed to address a loophole that allows residents to register all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and utility task vehicles (UTVs) in other states and avoid adhering to the state's driving laws.

Senate Bill 221, if passed, will ensure that all ATVs and UTVs follow Wisconsin's driving regulations, regardless of the title's state. This move is aimed at maintaining safety and fairness on the state's roads and trails.

The current registration system in Wisconsin serves a dual purpose. It not only acts as a tax that allows ATV and UTV owners to use the trail system, but it also funds trail development, maintenance, rehabilitation, law enforcement, safety education, and other critical services.

The issue of ATVs and UTVs registered in states like South Dakota and Montana but used in Wisconsin has been a point of contention. Some entities in these states have been offering to license UTVs and ATVs as motor vehicles, not as ATVs or UTVs, to Wisconsin residents. This practice, according to Sen. Howard Marklein, R-Spring Green, allows the use of the vehicles on any road in Wisconsin.

Randy Harden, President of the Wisconsin ATV Association, has voiced his support for the bill, stating that out-of-state vehicle owners should also pay for the privilege of using the trail system. He also mentioned that out-of-state companies are "actively marketing" a registration workaround, which is impacting funding for Wisconsin trails.

Currently, the usage of UTVs and ATVs on routes and trails in Wisconsin is determined on a local level. However, the bill in Wisconsin allows non-residents access to all ATV and UTV trails and approved routes, ensuring a more uniform and fair system.

It's important to note that there is no publicly available specific information about foreign companies that offer to circumvent Wisconsin's vehicle registration process while actively marketing routes and influencing economic path financing in Wisconsin.

The bill is a step towards ensuring that all users of Wisconsin's trail system contribute fairly to its maintenance and upkeep, promoting safety and equity for all.

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