HB188 Alabama 2018 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Artis McCampbellRepresentative

Democrat

Session

Regular Session 2018

Title

Marengo Co., golf carts, allowed to be operated on municipal streets and public roads in municipalities, const. amend.

Summary

Proposes a constitutional amendment to allow Marengo County municipalities to permit limited golf cart use on local streets with safety, licensing, and insurance requirements and penalties.

What This Bill Does

It would authorize a Marengo County municipality to designate certain municipal streets or roads for golf carts after a safety check. The municipality would require golf cart owners to register the cart and carry liability insurance, and it would inspect carts for required safety equipment before issuing a permit (with a permit fee). It sets driving rules such as a 25 mph speed limit, operation from sunrise to sunset, headlights, brake lights, turn signals, and a windshield, and requires the operator to hold a valid driver's license. It also establishes lane rules and penalties for unauthorized operation, and allows municipalities to enact stricter rules or permit limited operation for up to 80 hours for civic events.

Who It Affects

• Golf cart owners in Marengo County: must register their cart, carry liability insurance, and comply with inspection and licensing requirements.
• Municipalities in Marengo County: gain authority to designate streets, conduct inspections, issue permits, post signs, and enforce penalties.
• Other road users and residents: affected by new safety and traffic rules for golf carts on municipal streets.
• Insurance providers or policy issuers: may offer liability coverage that meets the required standards for golf cart operation.

Key Provisions

• Municipal designation of streets for golf carts after a safety determination, with signs posted when designation is approved.
• Carts must pass a safety equipment inspection and be insured; permits issued upon payment of a permit fee.
• Operational limits: maximum 25 mph; sunrise to sunset; driver must have a driver's license; golf carts must have headlights, brake lights, turn signals, and a windshield.
• Lane and traffic rules: golf carts have full lane use; overtaking in the same lane is prohibited; operation may occur between lanes but not two abreast.
• Civil penalties: a municipality may fine up to $50 for unauthorized operation.
• Event/ordinance flexibility: municipalities may enact ordinances that are more restrictive and may allow up to 80 hours of golf cart operation for civic events or fundraisers.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 24, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.

Subjects

Constitutional Amendments