HARRISBURG – The Pennsylvania Board of Game Commissioners gave preliminary approval to a proposal to create a regulatory violation to possess, maintain, operate, occupy or travel by all-terrain vehicle or snowmobile in violation of the state’s Vehicle Code (Title 75).
“Unauthorized ATV operation on State Game Lands and private lands enrolled in the agency’s Hunter Access Program continues to be one of the top 10 violations our Wildlife Conservation Officers encounter each year,” said Carl G. Roe, Game Commission executive director. “Illegal ATV operation is a major source of wildlife habitat destruction across the state, and these violations are often accompanied by ATV classification offenses, such as a lack of registration or insurance, which are required under Title 75.”
“Under current law, WCOs do not have authority to enforce Title 75 summary offenses, and the Game Commission normally forwards these violations to other enforcement authorities, which typically ends in mixed results. This amendment will ensure safe and effective enforcement of these requirements occurring on lands under Game Commission ownership, lease, agreement or control.”
This proposed regulatory change must be approved by the Board at a future meeting before taking effect.