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Bill

HB 587

All-terrain vehicles (ATVs); operation on highways in certain localities.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Jason Ballard

Expands ATV operation permissions onto Virginia highways in select localities, allowing off-road vehicles on public roads with potential safety and regulatory implications.

Continued to next session in Transportation (Voice Vote)
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Bill Summary · HB 587

Legislative bill overview

HB 587 would allow all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) to operate on highways in certain Virginia localities, expanding where these vehicles can legally be driven beyond their current restrictions. The bill has been referred to the House Transportation Committee and its Highway Safety and Policy subcommittee for evaluation, with continued consideration deferred to the next legislative session.

Why is this important

ATVs are currently prohibited from most public highways due to safety and equipment standards, so this bill would represent a significant regulatory shift in vehicle access. The decision affects public road safety, local traffic management, economic activity in rural areas where ATVs are popular, and which communities can opt into allowing such use.

Potential points of contention

  • Safety and liability concerns — ATVs typically lack safety features required for highway vehicles (airbags, crumple zones, stability control), raising questions about accident risks and insurance implications
  • Definition of "certain localities" — Unclear which areas qualify and whether local governments can opt-in or are required to accept ATV use, affecting municipal autonomy
  • Equipment and licensing standards — Bill does not specify what modifications, registration, or operator licensing requirements would apply, creating enforcement uncertainty

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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