MS HB529

Authorizes counties and municipalities to permit operation of utility-type vehicles (UTVs) and side-by-sides on public county and municipal roads with posted speed limits of 55 mph or less, but prohibits operation on state and federal highways except at intersections.

Requires UTV/side-by-side owners to register vehicles with the Department of Revenue and pay a $50 annual registration fee; owners are exempt from ad valorem property taxes, with collected fees distributed to counties for road and bridge maintenance.

Mandates operators be at least 16 years old with a valid driver's license and proof of liability insurance; restricts 16-year-old conditional license holders to daylight hours only with adult supervision, and prohibits operation by learner's permit holders.

Prohibits children under age 8 from being passengers in registered UTVs/side-by-sides on public roads and requires specific safety equipment including headlamps, turn signals, seat belts, windshield, and mirrors.

Defines UTVs/side-by-sides as motorized vehicles with top speed over 35 mph, width of 75 inches or less, length not exceeding 180 inches, dry weight of 3,500 pounds or less, four or more nonhighway tires, and side-by-side seating; effective July 1, 2025.