Authorizes persons under the age of fourteen to participate in special events involving snowmobiles

Title of bill

An act to amend the parks, recreation and historic preservation law in relation to authorizing persons under the age of fourteen to participate in special events involving snowmobiles

Purpose or general idea of bill

This bill would amend the Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (PRHP) by allowing a person who is less than fourteen years of age to operate a snowmobile as a participant in a special event (as defined in Section 21.05 of PRHP Law) provided that: the special event is held in accordance with any relevant statutes, rules and regulations; the PRHP commissioner authorized the event; he/she obtains written consent of his or her parent or legal guardian; and the PRHP Commissioner adopts rules and regulations relating to such participants. The PRHP Commissioner must review and consider those rules and regulations published by internal organizations that promote such events, including but not limited to, the International Series of Champions and the International Snowmobile Racing Association.

Summary of specific provisions

This act would permit youngsters who are less than 14 years of age to participate in special events for snowmobiles.

Justification

This bill is to bring New York's Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation law up to date with current practices for persons who are under 14 years of age to participate in special events for snowmobiles (known as snocross). The two international organizations that create the rules for snocross permit youngsters as young as four to participate in the programs. Eligibility requirements for special events would have rules established by the OPRHP Commissioner and would be conducted in accordance with those rules and permit requirements. The international groups operate programs to teach youngsters what is involved in a weekend of racing, sportsmanship, and proper snowmobile operations and safety. The program eligibility would be similar to those already in practice for motocross, including age requirements.

By changing the age eligibility, snocross would have similar age requirements as motocross, ATVs and motorcycles. The governing body for each sport has determined the age requirements for participation to ensure learning and training, and appropriate appreciation for the sport. A snocross event can generate in excess of $150,000 for the area that hosts the event.

Prior legislative history

New bill.

Implications for state and local governments

Provides economic opportunities for the communities where events are held.

Effective date

Immediately.