Wildlife officers seek ATV rider authority

Wildlife officers seek ATV rider authority

STROUDSBURG, Pa. (AP) — The Pennsylvania Game Commission wants its officers to have the authority to issue heftier tickets to all-terrain vehicle riders who get their kicks on trails where ATVs aren’t permitted.

The board of game commissioners gave preliminary approval Tuesday to a proposal giving wildlife conservation officers the power to issue citations for riders who break the state’s motor vehicle code.

The Pocono Record of Stroudsburg reports wildlife officers regularly catch ATV riders on prohibited trails on state game lands. Riding on game lands is punishable by fines of $100 to $200.

But when those riders aren’t wearing helmets or lack proof of registration or insurance, wildlife officers generally refer the case to other law enforcement agencies. That will change if the board gives the proposal final approval.