Committee reports favorably on bill allowing certain off‑road vehicles on specified public roads

Senate Bill 303, which would permit certain off‑road vehicles to operate on specified public roads in unincorporated areas under safety, registration and insurance requirements, received a favorable report from the County and Municipal Government Committee after sponsor remarks and member questions.

Senator Kelly told the committee the bill is the result of work over several years with counties, engineers and sheriff's associations and would permit off‑road vehicles to be operated "in the same manner as private passenger vehicles" on public roads that meet speed‑limit and location restrictions. The sponsor emphasized safety and dealer certification requirements, saying vehicles must meet brake, seatbelt, rollover protection, spark‑arresting/muffler and windshield standards and carry liability insurance.

Questions from committee members focused on dealer certification, liability language, and whether a cap for dealer fees should be added by amendment. Senator Kelly said some amendments were under consideration before the bill reaches the floor. The bill includes exemptions for agriculture, wildlife management, law enforcement and other official uses, and it treats violations as traffic offenses.

After discussion the committee moved the bill and reported it favorably for further consideration.