PEAK PUTTERS

Senator Jacobsen (D-46th) is the sponsor of SB 5586; it was read for the first time today (27th) and referred to Natural Resources, Ocean, and Recreation Committee.

The ACT relating to protecting public lands through off-road vehicle safety education and training; and adding new section to chapter 46.09 RCW.

The bill would require training and certification to operate an ORV in the State of Washington; the course must be adopted from a curriculum developed by a nationally recognized safety organization and include content regarding protection of public lands and the environment.

Beginning July 1, 2010, to operate an off-road vehicle on public lands a person must possess a safety certificate.

To read the complete content of the bill - go to:

http://apps.leg.wa.gov/documents/bil...Bills/5586.pdf

This bill is scheduled for a public hearing on January 29th in Olympia at 10:00 a.m. (Subject to change)

The following is a summary from testimony given during public hearing (Pros - Cons - Other).

PRO: This year the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) will be holding the 2nd Annual ORV Safety Summit. Safety training and education is provided by national and local organizations and associations. It would be beneficial to synchronize these training efforts. DNR is exploring recreational opportunities, funding, and other issues in the Sustainable Recreation Work Group created last session by the Legislature.

CON: Offering education and safety training won't teach judgement or how to use your skills in a responsible way. Being forced into training won't change behavior; the training should be voluntary and not mandated.

Arlene Brooks, WA. State Director