The bill amends Section 66-3-1011 of the New Mexico Statutes to authorize local and county elected authorities to permit off-highway motor vehicles to operate on paved streets and highways within their political boundaries. This change allows for greater flexibility in local governance regarding the use of off-highway vehicles, which were previously restricted from operating on paved roads except under specific conditions. The bill outlines the requirements that must be met for such operation, including the need for vehicles to have proper lighting, brakes, mirrors, and mufflers, as well as ensuring that operators possess valid driver's licenses and insurance.

Additionally, the bill allows local or county authorities to establish separate speed limits and operating restrictions for off-highway vehicles on paved streets or highways. It removes the previous requirement for authorization from the state transportation commission, thereby streamlining the process for local entities to regulate off-highway vehicle use. The bill maintains existing prohibitions on operating off-highway vehicles on limited access highways, state game commission lands, and state parks unless specifically permitted.

Statutes affected:
introduced version: 66-3-1011