GOLF CARTS ON LOCAL STREETS

DURING DAYLIGHT HOURS

House Bill 5045

Sponsor:  Rep. Kevin Cotter

Committee:  Local Government

Complete to 2-19-14

A SUMMARY OF HOUSE BILL 5045 AS INTRODUCED 10-2-13

House Bill 5045 would amend the Michigan Vehicle Code (MCL 257.1 et al) to allow people to drive golf carts on local streets during daylight hours if approved by local elected officials. 

Under House Bill 5045, the elected officials of a village, city, or township may, by resolution, allow the operation of golf carts on their streets, subject to certain requirements.  The bill specifies that the local unit could require the golf cart drivers and their golf carts to be registered, but would prohibit any charge for the registration.

Under the bill, the operator of a golf cart must comply with the laws of operation that apply to low-speed vehicles.  In addition, a golf cart could not be operated on the streets at night, or more specifically, "during the period from one-half hour after sunset to one-half hour before sunrise."

The bill defines "golf cart" to mean a vehicle designed for transportation while playing the game of golf and that is approved as a golf cart by the village, city, or township.  A golf cart is not required to meet the vehicle safety requirements of a low-speed vehicle for approval under this section.

FISCAL IMPACT:

There appears to be no significant direct fiscal impact.  The bill is permissive for local units of government.

                                                                                           Legislative Analyst:   J. Hunault

                                                                                                 Fiscal Analysts:   William E. Hamilton

■ This analysis was prepared by nonpartisan House staff for use by House members in their deliberations, and does not constitute an official statement of legislative intent.