House Bill 5204 (sHB5204 File No. 324) introduces amendments to the operation and registration of low-speed vehicles (LSVs) on public roads. Effective from October 1, 2024, the bill allows LSVs to be operated on highways with speed limits of 25 mph or less, unless local traffic authorities or the Office of State Traffic Administration impose restrictions. It mandates that LSVs must be equipped according to general statutes and federal standards, with violations considered infractions. The bill prohibits the registration of homemade LSVs or retrofitted golf carts and updates definitions and requirements for various vehicle types to ensure compliance with safety standards. Insertions in the bill clarify the operational conditions for LSVs and restrictions on their registration and titling, while deletions include the removal of the exception for LSVs from the definition of "motor vehicle."

The bill also redefines and renumbers various terms related to motor vehicles, such as "commercial motor vehicle," "electric bicycle," and "felony," to align with federal standards. It expands the definition of "person" to include limited liability companies and clarifies the definition of "serious traffic violation." Renumbering of definitions is consistent throughout the bill, with updates to legal terms and clarification of definitions like "Passenger motor vehicle" and "Recreational vehicle." The bill defines new terms such as "tank vehicle" and "vanpool vehicle," amends the definition of "vehicle," and excludes certain vehicles from the category of "all-terrain vehicle." It also indicates potential revenue gains from LSV operation and infractions, and classifies LSVs as motor vehicles subject to registration, titling, and insurance requirements. The bill outlines Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards for LSVs, including a pedestrian alert sound system for electric and hybrid vehicles. The Transportation Committee has given the bill a Joint Favorable Substitute.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 14-1
TRA Joint Favorable Substitute: 14-12, 14-1
File No. 324: 14-12, 14-1