SB3 Alabama 2019 1st Special Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Jimmy Holley

Republican

Session

First Special Session 2019

Title

Motor vehicles, golf carts and low-speed vehicles, prohibited from use on public highways

Summary

SB3 would ban nonconforming low-speed vehicles from Alabama public highways unless a local government approves them under safety rules, with a small fine for violations and several exemptions.

What This Bill Does

It prohibits operating nonconforming low-speed vehicles on public highways except where counties or municipalities (including Baldwin County and Class 2 municipalities) authorize them by local law or ordinance. Local authorities may allow operation only if specific safety standards are met, such as speed limits of 25 mph or less and possession of a valid driver's license, with daylight operation unless the vehicle has appropriate lighting. Violations would carry a $25 fine, and certain vehicles are exempt (farm tractors/agricultural equipment, mini-trucks, and higher education vehicles on campus property). The act also notes it creates or changes a crime, which affects local funding restrictions, and provides the effective date after gubernatorial approval.

Who It Affects

• Drivers and owners of nonconforming low-speed vehicles: would be prohibited from using public highways unless a local government approves their operation under specified safety conditions, and could be fined for violations.
• Local governments (counties and municipalities), including Baldwin County and Class 2 municipalities: would have the power to authorize the operation of nonconforming low-speed vehicles on local roads through resolutions or ordinances that meet minimum safety standards.

Key Provisions

• Defines nonconforming low-speed vehicle as a four-wheeled vehicle with top speed not more than 25 mph, weight under 3,000 pounds, not compliant with 49 CFR 571.500.
• Prohibits use of nonconforming low-speed vehicles on public highways unless authorized by Class 2 municipalities, Baldwin County, or by local ordinance under specified conditions.
• Sets a $25 fine for violating the prohibition.
• Allows counties/municipalities to authorize operation by resolution or ordinance if minimum standards are met: max 25 mph on public roads (except for crossing), valid driver's license, and daylight operation unless equipped with headlights, brake lights, turn signals, and a windshield.
• Provides exemptions: does not apply to farm tractors/agricultural equipment; mini-trucks; and higher education institution vehicles on property owned by the institution; does not supersede existing local laws.
• Notes the act is exempt from Amendment 621 local-funding requirements because it defines a new crime or amends a crime, and states the effective date as the first day of the third month after governor approval.

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

Subjects

Motor Vehicles