House Bill 1240 Summary

• Authorizes operation of utility-type vehicles (UTVs) on public roads and streets with posted speed limits of 55 mph or less, excluding state and federal highways except at intersections with 55 mph limits.

• Requires UTV registration with the Department of Revenue at $40.00 biennial fee; owners must present proof of ownership, liability insurance, and obtain license plates; exempts UTVs from county ad valorem property taxes.

• Distributes registration fees with $7.00 per vehicle to the State General Fund and remainder to counties proportionately for road and bridge maintenance.

• Establishes operator requirements: minimum age 16 with valid driver's license; 16-year-olds with conditional licenses limited to daylight hours (6 a.m. to 6 p.m., extended to 8 p.m. during daylight saving time) with adult supervision; prohibits learner's permit holders from operating UTVs; prohibits children under 8 years old as passengers.

• Mandates UTVs be equipped with headlamps, turn signals, taillamps, stop lamps, reflectors, mirrors, parking brake, windshield, VIN, seat belts, rear visibility, and alert sound to meet federal safety standards.