I can see where this will be a boon for all the RUV owners, although just the thought of someone with a modified Rhino blasting down the road sure gives me cold chills when thinking about the increased grip and it's effect on handling. I sure hope we do not see a rash of flipped vehicles.

 

SB1003 was signed by governor today. Section 8 was vetoed. It appers it created a redundant task force. Here is what it says:

"April 28, 2005 To the Honorable Speaker and Members, The House of Representatives of the State of Washington Ladies and Gentlemen: I am returning, without my approval as to Section 8, Engrossed House Bill No. 1003 entitled: "AN ACT Relating to the operation of off-road vehicles on roadways." Sections 1 through 7 and 9 of Engrossed House Bill 1003 provide for increased flexibility and improved safety requirements when operating an off-road vehicle. Specifically, no person under the age of thirteen (13) years may operate an off-road vehicle unless directly supervised by a person over the age of eighteen (18). Any person operating an off-road vehicle must wear an approved helmet unless the vehicle is equipped with seat belts, roll bars or an enclosed passenger compartment. Engrossed House Bill 1003 provides further flexibility for off-road vehicle users by permitting, in certain circumstances, the operation of the vehicle on non-highway roads to facilitate greater access to off-road vehicle specific trails. Section 8 of Engrossed House Bill 1003 creates a task force for the purpose of studying and making recommendations regarding off-road vehicle noise. I am vetoing Section 8 because the task force created in that section is identical to the task force created in Engrossed Substitute House Bill 5089 (Sec. 1), which I signed April 22, 2005. For these reasons, I have vetoed Section 8 of Engrossed House Bill 1003. With the exception of Section 8, Engrossed House Bill 1003 is approved. Respectfully submitted, Christine O. Gregoire Governor "

 

For Forest Service roads I strongly encourage you to contact the forest service office in the area that you are interested in opening up. I am told they plan to open areas up in stages. To help make sure your interests are heard let them know. The contact for the Cle Elum area can be contacted via this website.