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HB 113

relative to OHRV operation on certain highways within the town of Windsor.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Riché Colcombe

HB 113 sets rules for operating OHRVs on specific Windsor highways, detailing where, when, who may ride, safety requirements, and local enforcement.

Signed by Governor Ayotte 06/19/2026; Chapter 150; eff.08/03/2026
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 113

Summary of HB 113 (Session 2026, New Hampshire)

Title

Relative to OHRV operation on certain highways within the town of Windsor.

Note: OHRV = Off-Highway Recreational Vehicle (commonly snowmobiles and other all-terrain vehicles in NH).

Purpose and Intent

  • The bill specifies conditions under which OHRVs may operate on designated highways within the Town of Windsor.
  • It aims to establish or modify rules governing OHRV use on state or local roads to balance recreation with safety, traffic, and maintenance considerations.
  • The measure is intended to provide clearer municipal-level guidance for OHRV operators and law enforcement.

Key Provisions and Changes (as introduced and advanced through committee)

Because the exact statutory text is not provided here, the summary below reflects typical content found in similar OHRV-on-highway bills and the bill’s progress notes. Please consult the final enacted language for precise requirements.

  • Designation of Affected Highways: The bill identifies specific highways within Windsor where OHRV operation is regulated. It may specify segments, crossings, or entire roadways subject to rules.
  • Permitted OHRV Operations:
    • Times (e.g., daytime hours, seasonal limitations)
    • Vehicle classifications (types of OHRVs allowed or prohibited)
    • Requirements for operators (age, licensing, safety equipment such as helmets, headlights, reflectors)
  • Safety and Equipment Standards:
    • Lighting and visibility requirements
    • Audible signals or horn use
    • Maximum speeds or speed limits for OHRVs on the road
  • Interaction with Roadway Traffic:
    • Provisions to ensure OHRVs yield to motor vehicles where necessary
    • Rules for crossing at intersections, driveways, or bridges
  • Permits and Oversight:
    • Possible permit requirements for on-highway OHRV use
    • Enforcement provisions and penalties for non-compliance
  • Local Authority Roles:
    • Town of Windsor’s authority to regulate or modify on-highway OHRV rules
    • Coordination with state or regional agencies for safety and maintenance
  • Public Safety and Emergency Exceptions:
    • Provisions allowing or restricting OHRV use in emergencies or for necessary travel

Who/What Would be Affected

  • OHRV Operators: Those operating snowmobiles or other off-highway recreational vehicles on the specified Windsor highways.
  • Vehicle Owners/Operators: Individuals transporting OHRVs on highways or using them for local travel within Windsor.
  • Municipal Authorities in Windsor: Town officials responsible for implementing, enforcing, and updating OHRV policies on town roads.
  • Law Enforcement: Police and highway safety personnel enforcing the on-highway OHRV rules.
  • Local Businesses and Tour Operators: Businesses that rely on OHRV access for recreation or tourism may be affected by permissible routes and timing.

Procedural and Timeline Aspects

  • Introduced and Referenced:
    • Introduced: March 5, 2026
    • Referred to: Transportation Committee
  • Committee Action:
    • Initial committee report: February 11, 2026 (Vote 15-0; favorable with amendment)
    • Amendments: Amendment #2026-0541h (proposed March 5, 2026)
    • Ought to Pass with Amendment: March 5, 2026
    • Executive Session: February 11, 2026; additional sessions in 2026
  • Hearing Schedule:
    • Public hearing scheduled for April 21, 2026 (Room 122-123, State House)
  • Upcoming Consideration:
    • The bill progressed through standard committee and chamber procedures with potential amendments; final passage would require a vote by the full House (and potentially Senate, if applicable) and any gubernatorial action.

Additional Notes

  • Co-sponsor: Rep. Riché Colcombe
  • The bill underwent multiple rounds of committee scrutiny and amendments, indicating a robust review process and potential refinements before final passage.

Bottom Line

HB 113 seeks to govern and clarify OHRV operation on certain Windsor highways, balancing recreational use with road safety and local governance. Key elements likely include designated road segments, operator and equipment requirements, enforcement mechanisms, and the role of Windsor’s local authorities in implementing and adjusting these rules. For exact language, penalties, and any phase-in or sunset provisions, please refer to the enacted bill text and committee reports.

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

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