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House approves bill allowing low-speed electric vehicles on certain roads
Summary
House Bill 171, to permit low-speed electric vehicles (designed for up to 25 mph and up to four passengers) on roads with speeds up to 35 mph and subject them to regular vehicle rules and federal safety standards, passed the House 70-1.
The Utah House passed House Bill 171, which creates a legal framework for low-speed electric vehicles (LSVs) to operate on specified roadways. Sponsor Representative Bush said the vehicles are designed for neighborhood travel and are already used on college campuses; the bill defines low-speed vehicles as four-wheeled electric vehicles designed to operate at speeds not exceeding 25 mph and subject to the same licensing, registration and insurance requirements as motor vehicles.
"They're electric operated, so they're very good for the environment," Representative Bush said, urging members to vote in favor. Supporters, including Representative Jones, praised the bill for improving air quality and providing a low-cost transportation option. The House recorded 70 yes votes and 1 no and forwarded the bill to the Senate.
The bill requires compliance with federal safety standards and clarifies that the vehicles are not golf carts or off-highway vehicles. Representative Bush and supporters said the measure is a measured approach to allow limited low-speed vehicle use where appropriate, and could result in registration and sales tax revenues as more units are sold.
