Michigan House Bill HB4644

Michigan 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 6/12/25
• Refer: 6/12/25

Caption

Vehicles: other; operation of golf carts on streets and county roads in certain municipalities; allow. Amends sec. 657a of 1949 PA 300 (MCL 257.657a).

Impact

One significant aspect of HB 4644 is that it gives municipalities the authority to authorize golf cart operations unless restricted by the county board of commissioners. This board can disapprove such operations if it determines that they would cause environmental damage or public safety concerns. By empowering local governments, the bill encourages self-regulation, promoting community involvement in transportation policies while addressing specific local needs.

Summary

House Bill 4644 aims to amend Michigan's Vehicle Code by allowing cities, villages, and townships with populations under 65,000 to permit the operation of golf carts on local streets and roads. This initiative enables local governments to designate their own regulations and safety requirements for golf cart operation, reflecting a growing trend of local control in transportation issues. The bill specifies that these regulations cannot include fees for registering golf carts or their operators, aiming to promote accessibility.

Contention

The bill may provoke debate on the balance between regulation and freedom in transportation. Proponents argue that it allows for greater flexibility and responsiveness to community needs, while critics might see potential risks in safety and environmental impacts. Concerns could emerge over whether some communities may not be equipped to responsibly regulate golf cart use, potentially leading to inconsistencies in safety standards and practices across the state.