How much more do we need to know before we take stronger action to protect children riding ATVs?
For years, I've been researching ATV-related injuries and deaths, particularly those involving children. I've learned that New York State laws need to do more to protect young riders.
That's why I'm continuing to advocate for two companion pieces of legislation in the New York State Legislature:
Assembly Bill A3692 – sponsored by Assemblymember Harry Bronson, with Assemblymember Demond Meeks as a co-sponsor.
Senate Bill S7374 – sponsored by Senator Jeremy Cooney.
Together, these bills propose important changes to New York's Vehicle and Traffic Law:
Require ATV operators and passengers to wear an approved protective helmet on both public and private property.
Prohibit minors from operating ATVs in violation of the manufacturer's age recommendation labels.
Establish engine-size limits for certain minors operating ATVs that do not carry the specified ANSI/SVIA certification label.
Why does this matter?
Because a child's safety shouldn't depend solely on a parent's knowledge of ATV regulations, a manufacturer's warning label, or where an ATV happens to be operated.
These bills are not a complete solution to the ATV safety problem, but they are meaningful steps toward better protecting children.
I lost my son, Benjamin, in an ATV incident. I cannot change what happened to our family, but I can continue working to help prevent other families from experiencing that same heartbreak.
These bills deserve consideration and a vote in both houses of the New York State Legislature.
I'm asking New Yorkers who care about child safety to help spread the word. Contact your state legislators and ask them to support A3692 and S7374.
Children deserve better protection. Let's make our voices heard.
#ATVSafety #ChildSafety #NewYorkLegislation #ProtectOurChildren