State moves to clamp down on off-roaders

Just saw this on the wire.

DENVER (AP) — Colorado lawmakers voted to tighten the rules for off-road vehicles Tuesday despite objections that the state is taking away access to federal lands.

“This is not a privilege, this is a right to use your land, and it’s being turned into a privilege,” said Rep. Ray Rose, R-Montrose.

The measure (House Bill 1069) would prohibit motor vehicles from using public lands, trails, or roads unless it’s authorized by a sign or other means. A violation would be a misdemeanor with a $100 fine. People who violate the law while hunting, fishing, trapping would also have 10 suspension points applied to their licenses.

Violations in designated wilderness areas would carry a $200 fine and 15 license suspension points.

The bill passed on a voice vote and faces a third reading and a recorded vote before it goes to the Senate.