While ATV enthusiasts may criticise the new legislation, parents whose children have been killed or injured in ATV-related crashes are praising the change.
The new ATV bill, also known as "Sean's Bill" - in memory of the 8-year-old Plymouth boy killed in a 2006 ATV accident - will keep riders too young from operating powerful ATVs.
Mass. Governor Deval Patrick is expected to sign the bill into law shortly.
Once signed, the new law would prohibit children under 14 years old from driving ATVs, except at sanctioned races. The previous ATV age limit for children was 10 years old and up.
In addition, the bill sets a maximum engine size of 90 cubic centimeters for riders between 14 and 16 years old who must have adult supervision.
According to the US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), 74 children under 16 were killed in ATV-related accidents in 2008, while 37,700 were seriously injured.
Until the new bill comes into effect, children and adults should take vehicle safety and responsibility courses.
To find more information on ATV operating safety tips, please click here.
Sources: The Boston Globe, CPSC.
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