In response to the 32 snowmobile-related deaths last winter, the Minnesota Legislature passed several bills intended to improve safety and to crack down on violators.

• Drunken snowmobiling: Operators of snowmobiles (and other off-road vehicles) will be subject to the same DWI laws as automobile drivers. Effective January 1, 1998.
• Training: By 2002, all snowmobile operators under age 25 must take safety training. Also, those convicted of careless or reckless operation or of speeding twice within one season will be required to take the training.
• Registration: Three-year fee is increased to $45 from $30. Extra revenue will pay for trail improvements. Snowmobiles must be registered in owner's legal name-not nickname-and registration numbers must be displayed clearly on snowmobiles.
• Helmets: Snowmobilers under 18 are required to wear helmets, except those operating on family-owned land or in an officially authorized parade.
• Studs:Snowmobiles with metal stud traction devices are banned from paved state trails, because they can damage trails.

This month, additional support to help decrease the numbers of alcohol-related snowmobile accidents is in the works. New legislation will be introduced pertaining to DWI laws and snowmobiling. Many people are calling for stricter consequences surrounding the issue of mixing alcohol and driving.