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Committee approves measure allowing local governments to permit UTVs on streets, strips 900cc restriction
Summary
The committee advanced HB 1606, a permissive bill that lets cities adopt ordinances authorizing operation of utility task vehicles (UTVs) on designated streets; members agreed to an amendment removing a 900cc internal combustion limit so electric UTVs are not excluded.
Senator Tyler Deese, District 35, presented House Bill 1606 to allow local governments to authorize utility task vehicles (UTVs) to operate on certain public streets and highways within their jurisdictions. Deese said the bill preserves vehicle requirements — headlights, seat belts, licensing and roadworthiness — while giving local governing bodies the option to open specific streets to UTV operation.
During committee review, members and stakeholders discussed whether the bill should include electric or hybrid UTVs. The bill initially included a provision referencing a 900cc internal combustion engine; several senators said they preferred to allow electric UTVs and remove the engine displacement language. The committee suspended the rules and adopted a verbal amendment striking the lines (lines 31–33 in the draft) that referenced the 900cc limitation; senators said cities and counties could still set local rules on where the vehicles are allowed.
The amended measure clarifies that local governments may designate streets or highways as open to UTVs, requires registration and insurance and allows law enforcement to stop and enforce the rules. Supporters said the change responds to manufacturers producing electric UTVs and to local preferences about where such vehicles should operate.
Senator Deese moved to advance the bill as amended and Senator Scott seconded; the committee approved the amended bill by voice vote.
Sponsors said they would further refine language ahead of subsequent sessions if needed and would coordinate with local governments and law enforcement on implementation details.
