All-terrain vehicles, or ATVs, have thus far been free from licensing and safety requirements, largely because they are designed for off-road use and are restricted to private property.

But recent ATV-related deaths and growing concerns over misuse reflect the need for sensible regulations, sooner rather than later.

Nationally ATV sales have jumped four-fold, with 6.9 million vehicles now in use, industry studies show. In Hawai'i, that popularity has resulted in more ATV owners using public beaches and roads, and recent increases in accidents and deaths.

Department of Land and Natural Resources officials once had the power to confiscate vehicles and arrest users who violated the rules. But legislators years ago weakened the law so that it now basically has the effect of a traffic ticket.

Lawmakers have the opportunity to change that. Two bills regulating ATVs will be making their way through the Legislature beginning Monday. The first, HB 235, wisely limits ridership to licensed adults only and requires registration of all ATVs. Legislators should consider going a step further by giving authorities the right to confiscate vehicles when owners break the law. A second bill, HB 227, is flawed. This measure requires riders under the age of 18 to wear a helmet when riding on public lands or roads. Clearly HB 235 is more comprehensive and provides much-needed regulations; it should replace HB 227.

The ATV industry has supported safety measures nationwide. And Hawai'i remains one of just six states without ATV safety regulations.

Legislative action is long overdue. The time to act is now.