Committee advances bill allowing 'mini trucks' on county and city roads

The Senate Public Safety Committee voted to pass House Bill 308, commonly called the "mini truck" bill, after Representative Clifton introduced the measure and answered committee questions. The committee approved a "do pass" motion and sent the bill forward unanimously.

House Bill 308 would allow imported vehicles that are 25 years or older to operate on county and city roads, but not on interstates or highways. "These are for vehicles that have been imported and are 25 years or older," Representative Clifton said, adding that the vehicles would be treated similarly to earlier legislation on side-by-sides.

A committee substitute adopted on the bill directs the state revenue department to treat eligible mini trucks under ad valorem tax rules as antiques. Under that treatment, owners renewing registration would be assessed an annual fee equal to $100 times the applicable millage rate, payable at renewal.

Committee members asked practical and procedural questions during Clifton's presentation. The chairman praised Clifton for consulting law enforcement stakeholders. After discussion, Senator Bearden moved a "do pass" recommendation; Senator Goodman seconded. The motion passed unanimously. Senator Anderson agreed to carry House Bill 308 in the Senate.

The bill's bill-tracking reference listed during presentation was LC 394652S. No public testimony was recorded during the committee deliberations on this bill at this meeting.

Follow-up steps include committee reporting and consideration by the Senate committee identified to carry the bill.