In 1998, the state moved to a similar tax scheme for cars and light trucks.

"We're just doing the same for smaller vehicles," said sponsoring Sen. Curtis Bramble, R-Provo.

Senate Bill 23 isn't expected to cost the state tax revenue.

But by 2007, it is projected to have raised an extra $176,000 for public schools.

Bramble said the savings come from streamlining the tax code, not by charging recreational vehicle-owners more.

In fact, most boat, ATV and snowmobile owners would pay less, according to a schedule produced by county assessors.

But South Weber Republican Sen. Dave Thomas pointed out that if the bill passes, the registration fee for these vehicles will no longer be deductible from federal income taxes.

"This is a hidden tax. There will be winners and losers," said Thomas.

The change to an age-based fee is favored by a majority of residents, according to a recent Salt Lake Tribune poll.

Yet another bill that would affect ATV riders was sent back to sponsoring Rep. Joseph Murray, R-Ogden, for more work.

House Bill 161 would require health care providers to report to law enforcement agencies any accident involving a highway vehicle.

Endorsed by the Utah Sheriffs Association, the bill aims at helping police better track, and hopefully prevent, ATV accidents.

But committee members questioned the logic of adding the reporting requirement to a section of Utah code that requires emergency room personnel to report suspected crimes: injuries sustained from a stabbing, shooting or explosion.