MI SB0589

Permits political subdivisions (villages, cities, townships, counties, and state universities) to authorize law enforcement, emergency service, and parking enforcement employees to operate electric patrol vehicles on streets, highways, and sidewalks by ordinance.

Defines "electric patrol vehicle" as an electrically powered motor vehicle designed to carry no more than 4 persons, with a maximum speed of 25 miles per hour and unloaded weight not exceeding 1,300 pounds.

Restricts electric patrol vehicle operation to streets and highways with posted speed limits of no more than 25 miles per hour, with permission to cross streets and highways with speed limits up to 50 miles per hour, and operation on sidewalks.

Establishes equipment requirements for four-wheeled electric patrol vehicles including brakes, dual head and rear lamps, safety glass windshield, horn, safety belts, parking brake, and reflectors; reduces requirements for three-wheeled or fewer vehicles.

Allows political subdivisions to exempt electric patrol vehicles from specified equipment requirements by ordinance, with an effective date of June 24, 2018.