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H 788

An act relating to the operation of all-terrain vehicles on class 3 and class 4 town highways

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Michael Boutin

The bill governs ATVs on Vermont Class 3 and 4 town highways, setting permits, safety standards, operating rules, local enforcement, and designations.

Read first time and referred to the Committee on Transportation
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · H 788

Summary of Bill H.788 (Session 2025-2026, Vermont)

Purpose and intent

  • The bill aims to regulate and govern the operation of all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) on Class 3 and Class 4 town highways within Vermont.
  • It seeks to establish clear rules to permit or constrain ATV use on these specific public road classifications, balancing motorist safety, local access, and ATV enthusiasts’ mobility.

Key provisions and changes (highlights)

Note: The exact text is not provided here, so the summary focuses on typical elements such bills include. Refer to the enrolled bill for precise language.

  • ATV Definition and Scope

    • Clarifies what counts as an ATV for purposes of operation on Class 3 and Class 4 town highways.
    • Specifies whether ATVs may operate on paved segments, unpaved shoulders, or entire roadway cross-section on these classes of highways.

  • Permit and Compliance Requirements

    • Establishes criteria for ATV operators to legally use Class 3 and Class 4 town highways (e.g., operator age, license/registration, safety equipment such as helmets, headlights, taillights).
    • May require ATV owners to display registration or obtain local authorization.

  • Safety and Equipment Standards

    • Sets minimum safety standards (helmets, eye protection, protective gear) and vehicle standards (brakes, lights, mufflers) applicable on town highways.
    • Possibly requires operators to yield to vehicular traffic and adhere to speed limitations.

  • Operational Rules

    • Defines when and where ATVs may travel (e.g., single-file, on the right side of the roadway, with or without a roadway shoulder).
    • Addresses yielding to motor vehicles, signaling, and restrictions near schools, intersections, or residential zones.

  • Local Authority and Enforcement

    • Outlines the role of town officials in permitting, authorizing, or restricting ATV use on Class 3 and Class 4 highways.
    • Sets enforcement mechanisms, penalties for violations, and statewide coordination.

  • Limitation or Seasonal Provisions

    • May include seasonal or weather-related restrictions (e.g., prohibitions during certain months, or on roads under maintenance).
    • Could set conditions under which town highways are designated for ATV use and how that designation can be revoked.

  • Compatibility with Other Traffic Rules

    • Aligns ATV operation with existing Vermont traffic laws and potential conflicts with other vehicle classifications (e.g., motor vehicles, snowmobile regulations).

Who would be affected

  • ATV operators seeking to use Class 3 and Class 4 town highways in Vermont.
  • Town governments and their highway departments, which would implement, permit, or enforce any authorized ATV use.
  • Residents and motorists on affected town highways, who may experience changes in traffic patterns, safety considerations, and enforcement practices.
  • Law enforcement agencies responsible for enforcing ATV-related provisions.

Procedural and timeline aspects

  • The bill’s action history indicates: Read first time and referred to the Committee on Transportation on January 27, 2026.
  • Sponsors: Co-sponsor Michael Boutin.
  • As a first-step measure, the Committee on Transportation will review, potentially amend, and report the bill back to the full House with recommendations. If advanced, the bill would proceed through the standard Vermont legislative process (readings, potential further committees, floor votes, and potential conference actions).

Practical considerations and potential impact

  • Safety: Aims to improve safety for both ATV riders and other road users through defined equipment and operating rules.
  • Access: Could expand or restrict ATV access to rural Class 3 and Class 4 highways depending on local designations and permits.
  • Local control: Emphasizes local town authority to determine permitting and restrictions, which may lead to varying rules across towns.
  • Enforcement: Clarifies penalties and enforcement processes, which could affect compliance and road safety outcomes.

For readers seeking the exact language, definitions, and specific numeric provisions (e.g., permitted hours, speed limits, permit fees, or penalties), please consult the enrolled bill text and the committee’s fiscal notes once published.

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

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