03/25/2026
There have been Facebook posts prompting many questions, some confusion, and concerns about MN Senate File 1245. We love questions from members and are grateful for member engagement. However, Senate File 1245 poses no threat to our trails. In fact, the bill has no impact on snowmobiling.
Christian and I have been following this bill since its introduction. We to were alarmed by its title. But remember that the title of a statute has no legal effect. Upon reading the bill, it became clear that the bill is not about snowmobile trails. Rather, the bill is about regulating ATVs.
I think much of the confusion is that the bill addresses “off-highway vehicles.” As a matter of law, a snowmobile is not an off-highway vehicle. We have a separate and distinct statute defining a snowmobile.
Again, none of the language of the bill relates to our trails.
Christian and I have met with the Chairman of the committee and the bill’s author, Senator McEwen (Duluth). Sen. McEwen agrees with our interpretation of her bill and will state for the record in committee that her bill does not impact our sport or our trails. She told us that she “loves her snowmobilers”.
We will continue to follow this bill and watch out for any amendments that impact our sport.
Finally, thank you. We are at our best when you get involved.
Doug and Christian Franzen
MnUSA lobbyists.
