This bill amends various sections of Nebraska's motor vehicle laws to grant county boards the authority to regulate the operation of all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and utility-type vehicles on county and township roads outside city limits. It introduces definitions for these vehicles and modifies provisions related to the Motor Vehicle Certificate of Title Act, including registration, fees, and taxes applicable to ATVs and utility-type vehicles. Key changes include the establishment of new license plate categories and a registration fee of $10 for these vehicles, as well as the requirement for certificates of title to indicate that they are "manufactured for off-road use." The bill also updates safety regulations, mandating that operators and passengers of ATVs wear protective helmets and eye protection while on highways.

Additionally, the bill revises existing laws regarding the operation of motor vehicles, specifying that licensed operators must be at least twenty-one years old and licensed in the state or another state. It clarifies that all-terrain vehicles and utility-type vehicles are included in the definition of motor vehicles and outlines the conditions under which they may be operated on highways. The bill emphasizes the responsibilities of the Department of Motor Vehicles to update their systems for recording safety course completions for motorcycle operators and allows local governments to adopt ordinances regulating ATVs and utility-type vehicles. The bill will become operative on January 1, 2026, and repeals several existing statutes related to these vehicles.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 23-187, 60-103, 60-123, 60-135.01, 60-153, 60-305, 60-339, 60-358.01, 60-462, 60-463, 60-471, 60-501, 60-601, 60-605