The bill seeks to amend the Code of West Virginia by establishing a regulatory framework for roadable aircraft, classifying them as motor vehicles for taxation purposes while exempting them from the West Virginia Property Tax Adjustment Act. It introduces a new section, 11-5-16, which mandates special registration plates for roadable aircraft, charging an annual fee of $60 for these plates. The bill also exempts operators of fully enclosed roadable aircraft from motorcycle helmet requirements and motorcycle examination and licensing, while specifying that these aircraft must adhere to traffic laws when operated on highways. Additionally, it prohibits takeoffs and landings on highways except in emergencies and allows for certain exemptions from vehicle inspection requirements.

Moreover, the bill updates vehicle classifications, introducing "Class E" for roadable aircraft and modifying existing provisions regarding registration plate display. Owners of roadable aircraft can keep their registration plates inside the aircraft, provided the registration number is visible from the rear. The Division of Motor Vehicles is tasked with implementing these regulations, including the issuance of inspection stickers for roadable aircraft, and is authorized to adjust registration fees based on the Consumer Price Index, with a cap on increases. Overall, the legislation aims to streamline the registration process and ensure safety and compliance for this emerging category of vehicles.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 17A-1-1, 17A-3-15, 17A-10-1, 17A-10-3, 17B-1-1, 17B-2-7b, 17C-15-44, 11-5-16, 17A-3-14j, 17C-1-71, 17C-14-16, 17C-16-10
Committee Substitute: 17A-1-1, 17A-3-15, 17A-10-1, 17A-10-3, 17B-1-1, 17B-2-7b, 17C-15-44, 11-5-16, 17A-3-14j, 17C-1-71, 17C-14-16, 17C-16-10