House Bill 858 Summary

• Authorizes operation of four-wheeled electric vehicles with maximum speeds of 20-25 mph on public roads and streets with posted speed limits of 35 mph or less, though vehicles may cross higher-speed roads.

• Requires operators of low-speed vehicles to hold a valid driver's license and complies with federal safety standards (49 CFR 571.500).

• Allows counties, municipalities, and the Mississippi Transportation Commission to prohibit low-speed vehicle operation on streets under their jurisdiction if determined to be a safety concern.

• Amends Mississippi Code sections 63-1-7, 63-3-103, 27-19-3, 27-19-48, 27-19-56, and 27-51-5 to classify low-speed vehicles as motor vehicles for licensing, registration, and taxation purposes.

• Takes effect July 1, 2014.