Wisconsin Senate Bill SB331

Wisconsin 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 6/19/25
• Refer: 6/19/25

Caption

Operation of all-terrain and utility terrain vehicles, off-highway motorcycles, and snowmobiles and revision of the Department of Transportation highway maintenance manual.

Impact

If enacted, SB331 would amend existing statutes governing the operation of off-highway vehicles, clarifying regulations that pertain to usage on public roads and pathways. This legislation may result in standardized rules across the state, potentially increasing the safety of these vehicles on shared or public thoroughfares. Additionally, it could also influence how local jurisdictions implement their own ordinances regarding these vehicles, perhaps aligning them more closely with state mandates.

Summary

SB331 addresses the operation of all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), utility terrain vehicles (UTVs), off-highway motorcycles, and snowmobiles, seeking to revise the guidelines provided in the Department of Transportation's highway maintenance manual. The bill aims to create a more streamlined regulatory framework for the use and operation of these vehicles, focusing on ensuring safety, maintenance standards, and effective compliance among users and operators.

Contention

Discussions surrounding SB331 have highlighted a few key areas of concern among legislators and advocacy groups. Some supporters argue that the bill fosters a clearer understanding of operational standards and enhances safety on public roads where these vehicles are permitted. However, critics raise concerns that the regulations could be too restrictive or not sufficiently flexible to account for the diverse uses and needs of different regions, possibly impinging upon local control over vehicle operation. These contentions suggest a need for balancing state guidelines with local flexibility.