LANSING – State Representative Richard E. Hammel (D-Mt. Morris Township) will host an off-road vehicle (ORV) training course for ATVs and dirt bikes in Flushing on Saturday, May 16. The free class is part of the safety education requirement for ORV riders aged 10 to 16 under Michigan law.
"ORVs are a great way for families to get outside and explore the outdoors together," Hammel said. "This class will help young residents and teens stay safe while they're out hitting the trails. I encourage those families who'd like to get an ORV safety certificate for their teenagers to come take advantage of this free class."
The ORV training will take place on Saturday, May 16, from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Plumbers, Pipe Fitters and Service Trades Local Union 370, 5500 W. Pierson Road in Flushing.
Hammel and the GLS Building and Construction Trades will host the ORV training course, which will consist of a classroom session taught by Pat and Theresa Woody, certified safety instructors through the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR). No ORV riding will take place. Snacks and beverages will be provided to attendees, and there is no cost to attend.
Michigan requires that ORV riders aged 16 and under possess a valid safety certificate, which is earned by taking a training course and passing a certification exam. For more information about restrictions on younger ORV drivers, interested individuals can visit the DNR's ORV Web site at www.offroad-ed.com/mi/handbook/age_restrictions.