Humans are often their own worst enemies when it comes to solving cost issues related to goods. In the pursuit of making things cheaper, faster, and easier to consume, we inadvertently create severe environmental and health problems that manifest in the long run.
Unfortunately, this is the reality we face. Just look at the extensive environmental and health damage caused by toxic air, water, oil spills, radioactive contamination, and other disasters triggered by the desire for faster and cheaper products.
One looming health crisis involves PFAS, also known as forever chemicals, and microplastics. While these chemicals are not fully understood by science, they are known to be harmful to human health. Protecting ourselves and our children from these substances is crucial.
However, a proposed ban in California, SB-682, aimed at addressing the use of PFAS in products, may inadvertently impact youth ATVs and dirt bikes. These vehicles do not contain PFAS to the same extent as other products, yet they could be affected by the ban.
The Motorcycle Industry Council has raised concerns about the potential consequences of the ban on youth powersports vehicles. They argue that removing these models from the market could lead children to ride larger, more powerful adult-sized machines and have a significant impact on California's powersports economy.
While removing PFAS from products that directly impact health is important, banning items like youth ATVs and dirt bikes that are unlikely to shed or ingest PFAS seems excessive. The MIC is urging people to voice their support for an amendment to the proposed rule change that would exempt these machines from the ban.