This bill amends R.S.39:3-24 to allow for the registration and operation of utility task vehicles (UTVs) used exclusively for farm operations on public highways in New Jersey. The chief administrator of the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission will register these vehicles for a fee of $5 per year, similar to the existing provisions for farm tractors and traction equipment. The bill specifies that UTVs must adhere to safety regulations and operational guidelines set by the chief administrator, including restrictions on operation during certain hours and requirements for safety equipment.
Additionally, the bill provides a clear definition of a utility task vehicle, describing it as a motorized utility or off-road vehicle with four wheels, designed for seating the operator and one or more passengers side-by-side, and equipped with a steering wheel. This legislative change aims to facilitate the use of UTVs in agricultural settings while ensuring safety and compliance with existing traffic regulations.