This bill proposes an amendment to the Constitution of Alabama of 2022, specifically addressing the operation of golf carts within Dale County. It allows municipalities in the county to designate certain municipal streets or public roads for the use of golf carts, provided that a safety determination has been made considering factors such as speed, volume, and character of motor vehicle traffic. The bill requires golf carts to be equipped with safety features like headlights, brake lights, turn signals, and a windshield. It also mandates that golf cart operators must have a driver's license and be covered by liability insurance with the same limits as for motor vehicles. Municipalities are authorized to inspect golf carts, issue permits upon payment of a fee, and enact ordinances that could be more restrictive than the state-level provisions.
The bill sets limitations on golf cart operation, including prohibiting their use on streets with speed limits over 25 miles per hour and potentially restricting their use to daylight hours. Golf carts are entitled to full use of a lane, and cannot be operated between lanes of traffic or abreast in a single lane. Violations of unauthorized golf cart operation on municipal streets or public roads can result in a civil penalty of up to fifty dollars. Additionally, municipalities may pass less restrictive ordinances for the use of golf carts during civic events or for purposes such as fundraising or promoting economic development, for periods not exceeding 80 hours. The bill includes instructions for an election on the proposed amendment, with the appropriate election official to assign a ballot number and provide a description of the amendment for voters. The bill was passed by the Senate on April 30, 2024.