The bill proposes to amend the current law regarding authorized emergency vehicles in Alabama by allowing the designation of off-road vehicles as authorized emergency vehicles. This designation can be made by the chief administrator of any state, county, or municipal law enforcement agency, fire department, volunteer fire department, fire district, or rescue squad, provided that the off-road vehicle meets specific requirements. These requirements include being equipped with headlights, brake lights, shoulder harness seatbelts, emergency lighting, and reflective markings. The bill also stipulates that designated off-road vehicles may only be operated by authorized personnel for official purposes, such as emergency responses and training, and must be covered under the agency's insurance policy.

Additionally, the bill exempts designated off-road vehicles from all other licensing, equipment, and operational requirements typically mandated for vehicles on public roads. The act is set to take effect on June 1, 2025. The new legal language includes the insertion of provisions for the designation and use of off-road vehicles as emergency vehicles, while no deletions from current law are specified in the text provided.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 32-8-2
Engrossed: 32-8-2
Enrolled: 32-8-2