CT SB00445

Refusing to stop a snowmobile or all-terrain vehicle when ordered by a law enforcement officer becomes a class A misdemeanor (increased from infraction), or class D felony if the violation causes death or serious physical injury.

Operating at unreasonable speed or negligently increases from infraction to a maximum fine of $1,000 for first offense, $2,500 for second offense, and $3,500 for third or subsequent offense.

Violations of operation restrictions (illegal locations, excessive noise, improper equipment, animal harassment, trespassing) become class D misdemeanor for first offense and class C misdemeanor for second or subsequent offense, with 30-day license suspension for repeat offenses.

General violations of snowmobile and all-terrain vehicle regulations change from infractions to class D misdemeanor for first offense and class C misdemeanor for subsequent offenses, with operator and owner liable for treble damages to property owners.

Municipal penalties increase to maximum $1,000 for first violation, $2,500 for second violation, and $3,500 for third or subsequent violation; municipalities with 20,000+ population may seize and forfeit vehicles.

All provisions take effect October 1, 2020.