Sport Could Suffer Because Of New Law
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Posted: 7:29 PM Mar 22, 2009
Sport Could Suffer Because Of New Law
Amateur Motorcross supporters say a new law is adding even more danger to the sport.
Reporter: Michel Mason
Email Address: michel.mason@wymtnews.com
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Amateur Motorcross supporters say a new law is adding even more danger to the sport.

A federal law enacted in February bans the sale of anything made for children under 12 that contains lead, including small dirt bikes and ATVs.

It was a busy race day at the Daniel Boone MX Track in London, but many fans and riders fear the dust may settle for good.

"We're not going to race anymore. It's going to be done. Me and my son don't bond over anything better than this motorcycle riding right here," said Stephen Orberson.

Orberson says his six-year-old son, Nathan, starting racing a year ago and placed his first time on the track.

"Anything to keep from knocking over trash cans and breaking out windows, I'm going to do for him," added Orberson.

Tom Self, a state representative from Missouri, is touring racetracks and trying to get part of the law changed. He says not only does it ban the sale of millions of dirt bikes and ATVs already on showroom floors, but parts and some safety equipment too.

"When brake pads go bad, if you don't get brake pads on it, not a good thing. Something is going to happen," said Self.

"What's he going to do next year when he has to step up to a kids medium helmet? He's not going to be able to have the helmet," said Orberson.

People who support overturning the ban for dirt bikes and ATVs say an entire sport and industry is at stake. They say jobs at the manufacturers and dealerships to right here at the tracks could be lost.

Many here say keeping lead out of toys and banning dirt bikes and atvs are two different things.

"I can't remember the last time I caught him chewing on the fender of his motorcycle," added Orberson.

Fans and riders signed petitions today to send to Washington D.C. They were also encouraged to contact their lawmakers.


Latest Comments

Posted by: logan Location: albion,michigan on Mar 29, 2009 at 02:11 PM

this is stupid.When is the last time a kid sucked on a part of a dirtbike.....
Posted by: Mike Location: Barbourville on Mar 23, 2009 at 03:57 PM

Yeah, lets take the bikes and stuff away from the kids...and then have to worry about them stealing, drugs, and eventually jail.
Posted by: Earwig Location: Prestonsburg on Mar 23, 2009 at 12:08 PM

You know why our legislators have a problem with putting drunk drivers away....

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