HB 188 Summary

• Proposes a constitutional amendment for Marengo County allowing municipalities to designate municipal streets and public roads for limited golf cart operation after determining golf carts can safely travel on those roads.

• Requires golf cart owners to register their carts, obtain permits, and carry liability insurance with limits equal to motor vehicle insurance; municipalities must inspect carts for required safety equipment (headlights, brake lights, turn signals, windshield).

• Prohibits golf cart operation on roads with posted speed limits exceeding 25 miles per hour and restricts operation to sunrise to sunset hours at municipal discretion.

• Requires golf cart operators to possess a valid driver's license and establishes traffic rules including lane usage rights, prohibitions on passing in the same lane, and restrictions on operating two or more abreast.

• Allows municipalities to impose civil penalties up to $50 for unauthorized golf cart operation and permits more restrictive local ordinances; also allows less restrictive ordinances for special civic events and fundraising activities not exceeding 80 hours annually.