ATV registration fees could go away for some veterans with a disability

Riding an all-terrain vehicle helps people stay active, connect with nature, and engage with other people.

Sometimes simply talking about it can be emotional.

“If a veteran can take an ATV and not think about taking their life, this is worth it,” said Rep. Roger Skraba (R-Ely), who stopped briefly to compose himself during his testimony Wednesday to the House Veterans and Military Affairs Division.

The U.S. Army veteran sponsors HF1225 to eliminate the all-terrain vehicle registration fee for veterans with a total service-connected disability. “It’s a great opportunity to help some veterans, and I don’t think it’s asking too much for the people of Minnesota to do this,” Skraba said.

Receiving division approval, the bill’s next stop is the House Environment and Natural Resources Finance and Policy Committee.

“It’s not a large group of people that are in that group, so it’s not going to hurt our economy,” Skraba said. No fiscal note was provided.

President Ron Potter said, via letter, the All-Terrain Vehicle Association of Minnesota supports the bill.

“Minnesota’s veterans have made tremendous sacrifices in service to our country, and this bill is a small but meaningful way to honor and support them. Many veterans rely on outdoor recreation, including ATV riding, as a form of therapy, rehabilitation, and community engagement. By removing the registration fee burden for those with a total service-connected disability, we can make it easier for them to enjoy Minnesota’s vast trail systems and outdoor spaces.”