HELENA – U.S. Sen. Jon Tester and Rep. Denny Rehberg are each proposing legislation to undo a ban on sales of mini-bikes and parts for them.
The off-road motorcycles and ATVs were unwittingly banned as a result a new national limit on lead in children’s products. It has left dealers holding thousands of the machines and even forced the cancellation of some motocross racing.
Dealers say it is silly to think children will eat their mini-bike parts.
Democrat Tester says his bill will also exempt secondhand sellers, like thrift stores, from the ban on toys and other children’s products.
The Consumer Product Safety Commission says it is also reviewing its implementation of last year’s lead ban legislation.
Republican Rehberg also sent a letter to the agency, urging them to correct their interpretation of the law.