SB218 Alabama 2022 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

April WeaverSenator

Republican

Session

Regular Session 2022

Title

Shelby Co., motor vehicles, low speed vehicles, operation authorized, const. amend.

Summary

SB218 would amend the Alabama Constitution to let Shelby County and its cities authorize and regulate the use of low-speed vehicles, such as golf carts, on certain public roads.

What This Bill Does

The bill would allow local governments in Shelby County to designate where low-speed vehicles can be used on public roads and set the rules. It defines a low-speed vehicle as a four-wheeled vehicle with a top speed of 25 mph or less, weighing under 3,000 pounds, and meeting federal safety standards. An election would be held to approve the constitutional change, after which local officials could establish regulations for use on designated roads.

Who It Affects

• Residents and road users in Shelby County who may be able to operate low-speed vehicles on designated roads if authorized
• Municipal governments within Shelby County (city councils) and the Shelby County Commission that would gain authority to authorize and regulate low-speed vehicle use
• Owners and operators of low-speed vehicles (e.g., golf carts) that meet the defined standards and could use the roads under local rules

Key Provisions

• Definition of a low-speed vehicle: four wheels, top speed ≤25 mph, gross weight <3,000 pounds, and certified to applicable federal safety standards (including 49 C.F.R. § 571.500)
• Municipal authorization: municipalities in Shelby County may, by ordinance, authorize and regulate the operation of low-speed vehicles on certain public roads within the municipality's limits
• County authorization: Shelby County Commission may, by resolution, authorize and regulate the operation of low-speed vehicles on certain public roads in the unincorporated parts of the county
• Constitutional amendment and election: the amendment would be proposed and submitted to voters in an election; if approved, it becomes part of the Alabama Constitution and allows the described local authority
• Ballot description: the amendment includes specific language to inform voters about the proposed change and how to vote Yes or No

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 22, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.

Subjects

Constitutional Amendments