Utility-type vehicles and side-by-side; authorize operation of on public county and municipal roads and streets.
Significantly, HB646 exempts UTV owners from paying ad valorem property taxes in the county where the vehicle is registered. This exemption could lead to increased registration as owners opt for UTVs for recreational or practical purposes without the burden of additional taxation. Furthermore, the annual registration fees are earmarked for the maintenance of roads and bridges, which could enhance infrastructure across the state. The bill also stipulates safety measures, such as requiring all registered UTVs to be equipped with specific safety features, including headlamps, seat belts, and braking systems, thereby promoting road safety among users.
House Bill 646 aims to regulate the operation of utility-type vehicles (UTVs) and side-by-sides on public county and municipal roads within Mississippi. The bill mandates that UTVs must be registered with the Department of Revenue in a manner similar to passenger vehicles, and it introduces an annual registration fee of $50. In addition to registration, owners must provide proof of ownership and liability insurance before obtaining a license plate for their vehicle. The bill allows for the operation of UTVs on public roads that have a posted speed limit of 55 miles per hour or less, expanding the scope of where these vehicles can be legally used.
A contentious aspect of the bill is the restrictions it places on younger drivers. It states that operators must be at least 16 years old and possess a valid driver's license while prohibiting those with only a learner's permit from driving UTVs on public roads. Parents and guardians may voice concerns regarding the limitations imposed on young drivers’ mobility. Additionally, the bill restricts passengers under the age of eight from riding in these vehicles, reflecting a cautious approach to ensuring the safety of minors. There may be discussions surrounding whether these provisions strike the right balance between safety and accessibility for families.