Minnesota Set to Ban Sale of Youth Powersports Products
Press Release | November 13, 2024
Minnesota Set to Ban Sale of Youth Powersports Products: Youth-Model Powersports Products Facing Minnesota Ban Just Weeks Away
This is a press release from the Motorcycle Industry Council…
(November 13, 2024) — Powersports products from vehicles to riding gear, designed for children under 12 and containing intentionally added PFAS chemicals, will be banned from sale or distribution in Minnesota starting on New Year’s Day.
“Our manufacturers are subject to Minnesota’s juvenile products PFAS ban,” said Scott Schloegel, MIC Senior Vice President of the Government Relations Office. “We fought the provisions during the legislative process and have been in contact with the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency since the bill was signed into law. But there is no flexibility on the prohibition for powersports clothing, gear, and vehicles at this time. We have repeatedly warned that eliminating access to youth-model dirt bikes and ATVs may promote the use of adult-size machines among kids, and we know that it is not safe for children to use larger vehicles that are not designed for them.”
In powersports, PFAS chemicals can be found in or used to manufacture a wide variety of products such as vehicle components resistant to heat, fuel, and chemicals, as well as semiconductors and chrome plating. Some riding gear designed for rugged outdoor use rely on PFAS chemicals for waterproofing and sweat-wicking properties.
The MPCA website states: “Any products containing intentionally added PFAS that are designed or marketed for use by infants and children under 12 years of age, excluding children’s electronic products or an adult mattress, are included in the juvenile products definition and will be prohibited from sale and distribution in 2025. Juvenile products are not limited to those listed in the definition. Manufacturers are responsible for maintaining awareness of regulations potentially applicable to their products, so the MPCA will not directly notify manufacturers that their products may be prohibited.”
