SB-1020 Summary

• Expands authorization for off-road vehicle (ORV) operation on state trunk line highways in eligible counties (northern Lower Peninsula and Upper Peninsula counties) and allows counties to adopt ordinances permitting ORV use on maintained road portions.

• Requires state transportation department to designate at least 10 state trunk line highways in Upper Peninsula and 5 in eligible Lower Peninsula counties for ORV operation by May 1, 2013, after soliciting input from ORV user groups.

• Redefines "ATV" to include vehicles with 3 or more wheels (instead of limiting to 3, 4, or 6-wheeled vehicles) and clarifies that an ATV is an ORV.

• Establishes safety requirements for ORV operation on authorized roads including 25 mph speed limit, single-file travel, headlights/taillights, and licensing requirements, with exemptions for certain vehicles and agricultural use.

• Creates liability protections for state and local government entities for ORV-related injuries on public lands and roads, except for cases involving gross negligence; establishes fine and damage recovery mechanisms for violations.