CA AB2316

Authorizes the City of Needles to establish a pilot project through January 1, 2026 to designate combined-use highways on roads in the city for up to 10 miles total to link off-highway motor vehicle trails on federal lands with service and lodging facilities.

Requires City of Needles pilot project designations to include speed limits of 35 mph maximum, safety requirements for drivers' licenses and helmets, uniform signage standards developed with the Department of Transportation, and California Highway Patrol approval that no traffic safety hazard would be created.

Mandates the City of Needles obtain city council majority vote approval for highway selection, establish procedures for removing combined-use designations, and allow public comment through a public hearing.

Requires City of Needles to submit reports to the Legislature by January 1, 2025 evaluating the pilot project's safety, effectiveness, traffic impacts, and environmental consequences in consultation with the California Highway Patrol, Department of Transportation, Department of Parks and Recreation, Department of Fish and Wildlife, and Mojave Desert Air Quality Management District.

Makes the City of Needles responsible for defending and indemnifying the state against all claims and liability arising from safety-related losses or injuries resulting from use of combined-use highways designated under the pilot project.