HB54 Summary

• Authorizes municipalities to designate specific municipal streets and public roads for limited golf cart operation after determining the routes are safe based on traffic speed, volume, and character.

• Requires golf cart owners to register their carts, obtain a municipal permit, and carry liability insurance with the same coverage limits as motor vehicles; municipalities must inspect carts for required safety equipment before issuing permits.

• Golf carts may only operate on roads with posted speed limits not exceeding 25 miles per hour and must be equipped with headlights, brake lights, turn signals, and windshields.

• Operators must possess a valid driver's license and are prohibited from overtaking other vehicles in the same lane, operating between traffic lanes, or riding two or more abreast in a single lane.

• Establishes a civil penalty of up to $50 for unauthorized golf cart operation; allows municipalities to enact more restrictive ordinances or authorize golf cart use for up to 80 hours during civic events and economic development activities.