HB12-1066 Summary: Application of Vehicle Laws to Powersports Vehicles

• Authorizes off-highway vehicles (ATVs, snowmobiles) to be registered and operated on roads with specific limitations including a 40 mph speed limit and restriction to roads with speed limits of 45 mph or less (except to cross roads).

• Requires registered off-highway vehicle operators to have valid driver's licenses and maintain insurance; establishes a $10 registration fee, $4 county fee, and $0.50 motorist insurance database fee for covered off-highway vehicles.

• Implements registration and titling procedures for powersports vehicles through the Department of Revenue, allowing dealers to act as agents for temporary registrations; license plates do not require annual renewal.

• Establishes equipment standards for registered off-highway vehicles including seats, seatbelts, brakes, stoplights, reflectors, mirrors, and headlamps; operators must obey standard traffic laws.

• Takes effect August 8, 2012 (subject to referendum petition) with provisions applying to transactions occurring on or after April 1, 2014; includes $25,900 appropriation for implementation.