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WV SB298

WV SB298
Relating to roadable aircraft on WV highways


summary

Introduced
02/12/2025
In Committee
03/18/2025
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
04/12/2025

Introduced Session

2025 Regular Session

Bill Summary

A BILL to amend and reenact §17A-1-1, §17A-3-15, §17A-10-1, §17A-10-3, §17B-1-1, §17B-2-7b, and §17C-15-44 of the Code of West Virginia, 1931, as amended; and to amend the code by adding five new sections, designated §11-5-16, §17A-3-14j, §17C-1-71, §17C-14-16, and §17C-16-10, relating to roadable aircraft; specifying taxation of roadable aircraft, defining terms; requiring special registration plates for roadable aircraft and establishing annual fee per plate; regulating display of registration plates; classifying roadable aircraft for purpose of registration and establishing registration fee; correcting citation cross references; exempting roadable aircraft operators from motorcycle examination, licensing, and endorsement requirements; clarifying that a roadable aircraft is considered a motor vehicle if it is operated on a highway for purposes of traffic regulations and laws of the road; prohibiting roadable aircraft from taking off from or landing on any highway except if landing due to an emergency; exempting persons with a valid driver’s license who are operating or riding in a fully enclosed roadable aircraft from the motorcycle helmet requirement; exempting roadable aircraft from the vehicle inspection requirement under certain circumstances; imposing duties on the Division of Motor Vehicles related to roadable aircraft and authorizing collection of fees; and authorizing rulemaking by the Division of Motor Vehicles related to roadable aircraft.

AI Summary

This bill establishes a comprehensive legal framework for roadable aircraft in West Virginia, defining them as aircraft capable of both flying and driving on highways. The bill creates a new vehicle classification for roadable aircraft, requiring special registration plates with an annual fee of $15 and a registration fee of $60. Roadable aircraft are considered motor vehicles when operating on highways and must comply with traffic regulations, though they are prohibited from taking off or landing on highways except in emergencies. The bill provides several key exemptions, including exempting roadable aircraft operators from motorcycle licensing and helmet requirements if the vehicle is fully enclosed. Additionally, roadable aircraft are exempt from standard vehicle inspection requirements if they meet federal aircraft maintenance standards, with the Division of Motor Vehicles authorized to verify compliance and issue inspection certificates. The bill also clarifies taxation provisions, noting that roadable aircraft will be considered motor vehicles for tax purposes but with specific limitations. The legislation aims to create a clear regulatory pathway for this emerging transportation technology, addressing registration, safety, and operational guidelines for roadable aircraft in West Virginia.

Committee Categories

Budget and Finance, Transportation and Infrastructure

Sponsors (1)

Last Action

To Finance (on 03/18/2025)

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