The bill amends the General Laws to include a new definition for "low-speed motor vehicle" or "low-speed vehicle," which is a four-wheeled electric vehicle with a speed between 20 and 25 mph and a gross vehicle weight rating of less than 3,000 lbs. These vehicles must comply with federal safety standards and are subject to state registration, inspection, and insurance requirements. The bill also updates the definitions and use requirements for "antique motor cars" and "antique motorcycles," which are vehicles over 25 years old that can be used for specific purposes and may display special antique plates. Other vehicle definitions are updated, but without new insertions or deletions.

Furthermore, the bill specifies registration requirements for various vehicles when operated on state highways, including a new category for low-speed vehicles. It exempts certain vehicles from registration, such as those operated by nonresidents or used exclusively on farms. The bill also revises the title of Chapter 31-10.1 to include "Special Licenses for Motorcycles, Motor Scooters, Low-Speed" vehicles. A new chapter, Chapter 19.6 titled "LOW-SPEED VEHICLES," is added, detailing the operational conditions for low-speed vehicles, including registration and display of a slow-moving vehicle emblem. These vehicles are not allowed on highways with speed limits over 35 mph, except for controlled intersections, and municipalities can restrict their use on certain roadways. The bill will take effect on July 1, 2024.

Statutes affected:
5457  SUB A: 31-1-3, 31-3-2, 31-10.1-7
5457: 31-1-3, 31-3-2, 31-10.1-7