Representative Hixson proposes golf cart night operation bill in North Augusta

A proposed bill allowing golf carts to operate at night in designated areas is making waves in South Carolina's Senate Transportation Committee. The legislation aims to provide municipalities and counties the authority to enact ordinances permitting nighttime golf cart use, provided the vehicles are equipped with lights.

Todd Glover, a concerned citizen and executive director of the Municipal Association, spoke at the April 16 meeting, emphasizing the bill's focus on safety. He clarified that the legislation does not grant unrestricted nighttime access for golf carts but instead requires local governments to assess safety and designate appropriate areas for operation. Glover highlighted that the bill is designed to address specific community needs, such as allowing residents to drive golf carts to local swimming pools or baseball games without breaking the law if they stay out after dark.

Glover also shared statistics from the Department of Transportation, revealing that there have been 11 golf cart fatalities in South Carolina from February 2010 to February 2023, underscoring the importance of careful regulation. The bill is still in the early stages, with further discussions and refinements expected as it moves forward.

As municipalities consider the implications of this legislation, the focus remains on balancing community convenience with public safety. The committee's next steps will be crucial in determining how and when golf carts can safely navigate South Carolina's streets at night.