Bill > HB502

This bill, titled "Off-highway vehicle operation & fees," amends the "Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Act" to clarify and expand regulations regarding the operation of off-highway vehicles (OHVs), which are vehicles designed for off-road use. Key changes include prohibiting OHVs on limited-access highways and most paved streets and highways, with specific exceptions for designated routes, special events, agricultural use, and safe street crossings. The bill also introduces new requirements for OHVs operating on designated public roads, such as mandatory liability insurance, adherence to posted signs, nighttime lighting requirements, and age restrictions for operators and passengers, with stricter rules for those under eighteen. Furthermore, it clarifies that local governments cannot impose fees for using public land or require OHVs to be licensed within their jurisdiction. The bill also updates the penalties for violations, categorizing them into different classes with corresponding fines, and specifies that operating an OHV on streets or highways now falls under Class 3 violations with a $50.00 penalty assessment, increasing to $100.00 for repeat offenses.