Utility-type vehicles and side-by-sides; authorize operation of on public county and municipal roads and streets.
Impact
This legislation introduces structured regulations that enhance road safety while providing a legal framework for UTVs to operate on defined public roads, specifically those with speed limits of 55 miles per hour or less. Additionally, the bill exempts owners of these vehicles from paying ad valorem property taxes, which may encourage more residents to utilize such vehicles for travel. The funds collected from registration fees will be allocated to counties to be used for maintaining roads and bridges, thus potentially improving local infrastructure.
Summary
House Bill 836 aims to establish regulations for the operation of utility-type vehicles (UTVs) and side-by-sides on public county and municipal roads within Mississippi. The bill outlines the requirements for registering UTVs with the Department of Revenue, mandating the issuance of license plates and requiring proof of ownership, liability insurance, and the payment of a $50 annual registration fee. Operators must possess a valid driver's license and be at least sixteen years old, with additional stipulations for young drivers operating under a conditional license.
Contention
Notable points of contention surrounding HB 836 include the limitations imposed on younger drivers, such as the stipulation that those with only a conditional driver's license can only operate the vehicles during daylight hours and must be accompanied by a licensed adult. These restrictions aim to enhance safety but may face pushback from those advocating for broader operational freedoms for young drivers. Moreover, local governments retain some discretion to authorize or restrict UTV operations, raising discussions about local control versus state regulation.