The bill amends the Michigan Vehicle Code to allow villages, cities, and townships with populations of fewer than 65,000 individuals to permit the operation of golf carts on their streets. It specifies that townships can allow golf cart operation unless disapproved by the county board of commissioners, which can hold a hearing to assess potential environmental damage or public safety concerns. The bill also establishes that golf carts must be operated by individuals at least 16 years old with a valid motor vehicle license and outlines various operational requirements, including speed limits and compliance with traffic signals.

Additionally, the bill introduces provisions for local governments to request authorization from the state transportation department to allow golf carts on state trunk line highways, provided certain conditions are met. It mandates that golf carts must not be operated on sidewalks, during nighttime hours, or on highways with speed limits exceeding 30 miles per hour, except for crossing. The bill also clarifies that golf carts are not required to be registered under the insurance code and outlines safety requirements that may be imposed by local jurisdictions.

Statutes affected:
Senate Introduced Bill: 257.657