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LB 196

Authorize the operation of all-terrain vehicles and utility-type vehicles between the hours of sunset and sunrise if used for snow removal

109th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Jared Storm

Allows nighttime ATV/UTV snow removal on public roads within authorized municipalities or unincorporated villages, with licensing, insurance, and safety requirements kept.

Approved by Governor on March 11, 2025
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Bill Summary · LB 196

Summary — LB 196 (2025)

Status: Approved by Governor March 11, 2025
Introduced: January 14, 2025 — Sponsor: Senator Jared Storm
Statute amended: Section 60‑6,356, Reissue Revised Statutes of Nebraska

Purpose

LB 196 modifies Nebraska law governing operation of all‑terrain vehicles (ATVs) and utility‑type vehicles (UTVs) on public highways to allow an explicit nighttime exception for snow removal within municipalities and unincorporated villages, while preserving local control over whether and how such vehicles may be used on public roads.

Key provisions

  • Amends section 60‑6,356 to remove the blanket restriction that ATVs/UTVs may be operated on authorized roadways only between sunrise and sunset.
  • Creates an exception permitting operation between sunset and sunrise solely for the purpose of snow removal within:
    • the corporate limits of a city or village, or
    • an unincorporated village (when authorized by the county).
  • Retains and clarifies existing operational requirements for ATVs/UTVs when operated on highways under authorization:
    • Operator must hold a valid Class O operator’s license or a farm permit (per §60‑4,126).
    • Liability insurance is required while operating on a highway; operator must provide proof of insurance to a peace officer within five days of request.
    • Maximum speed of 30 mph.
    • Headlight and taillight must be on; vehicle must display a bicycle safety flag extending at least five feet above ground, triangular, at least 30 sq. in., day‑glow color.
  • Preserves existing restrictions and procedures regarding controlled‑access highways (crossing rules, intersections, authorization by ordinance/resolution) and agricultural exemptions.
  • Confirms cities, villages, and county boards retain authority to adopt ordinances/resolutions further regulating or prohibiting ATV/UTV operations within their jurisdictions.
  • Repeals the original version of §60‑6,356 and harmonizes related language.

Who is affected

  • Municipalities and counties (in that they can authorize, regulate, or prohibit nighttime snow‑removal use).
  • Local governments and private entities performing snow removal may use ATVs/UTVs at night where authorized.
  • ATV/UTV operators (must comply with licensing, insurance, equipment, and speed rules).
  • Law enforcement (insurance verification process).

Legislative/procedural timeline

  • Referred to Transportation & Telecommunications Committee (Jan 16, 2025); committee hearing Jan 28, 2025 (advanced to General File).
  • Advanced through legislative stages (General File, Select File, Enrollment & Review).
  • Passed Final Reading 48–0–1 (Mar 6, 2025); presented to Governor Mar 6, 2025; signed into law Mar 11, 2025.

Notes / Considerations

  • Supporters included the League of Nebraska Municipalities and the City of Schuyler; no recorded opponents at committee hearing.
  • The change is limited in scope (nighttime use only for snow removal in authorized municipal/unincorporated village areas) and preserves local control and most safety/insurance requirements.

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

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