Tester’s ‘common sense’ Dirt Bike proposal in line to pass Senate this week

Measure will allow children to use smaller, safer dirt bikes and ATVs

(U.S. SENATE) – As the Senate finalizes plans for a bipartisan debt deal this week, lawmakers are also expected to pass a proposal by Sen. Jon Tester allowing motorsports dealers to again sell safer dirt-bikes and all-terrain vehicles for use by children.

Tester has long pushed for using “some Montana common-sense” to amend the Consumer Product Safety Act of 2008. 

The law was designed to keep dangerous products, like toys with lead, out of the hands of young children.  But the law has forced many motorsports dealers and repair shops to stop selling and repairing dirt bikes and ATVs for use by children because the vehicles contain internal lead parts.

As a result, some parents are allowing their children to ride unsafe, adult-sized vehicles.

“Toys containing lead that kids can put in their mouths pose a real danger for young children,” Tester said.  “But dirt bikes are different than toy dinosaurs, and I’m pleased that the Senate finally corrected this overreach because in Montana and rural America, riding motorized vehicles is part of our outdoor heritage.”

The Senate bill also protects second-hand sellers like thrift stores and flea markets from being liable for selling products that contain lead.  As of Monday afternoon, the bill was awaiting approval by Senate Republicans so that the bill could be approved on a voice vote.

Tester originally introduced his Dirt Bike Bill in March of 2009.  He has continued to push for its passage.