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HB 1606

TO ALLOW A LOCAL GOVERNMENT TO AUTHORIZE THE OPERATION OF A UTILITY TASK VEHICLE ON A DESIGNATED PUBLIC STREET OR HIGHWAY WITHIN THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT'S JURISDICTION SUBJECT TO CERTAIN REQUIREMENTS.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Tyler Dees and 1 co-sponsor

HB 1606 allows Arkansas local governments to permit utility task vehicles on designated public streets, ensuring safety and compliance with traffic laws.

Notification that HB1606 is now Act 922
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Bill Summary · HB 1606

Summary of HB 1606: Utility Task Vehicle Operation on Public Streets

Bill Number: HB 1606
Title: To Allow a Local Government to Authorize the Operation of a Utility Task Vehicle on a Designated Public Street or Highway Within the Local Government's Jurisdiction Subject to Certain Requirements
Status: Now Act 922
Introduced: February 26, 2025
Sponsor: Representative Steimel

Purpose and Intent

HB 1606 aims to provide local governments in Arkansas the authority to permit the operation of utility task vehicles (UTVs) on designated public streets and highways. The bill establishes specific requirements that must be met for such operation, ensuring safety and compliance with existing traffic laws.

Key Provisions

The bill outlines several important provisions regarding the operation of UTVs:

  1. Definition of Utility Task Vehicle (UTV):

    • A UTV is defined as a vehicle that:
      • Is 80 inches or less in width.
      • Travels on four or more low-pressure tires.
      • Has a steering wheel and non-straddle seating.
      • Includes a rollover protection system.
      • Is designed for travel over unimproved terrain.
      • Is powered by an internal combustion engine with at least 900 cubic centimeters of displacement.

  2. Local Government Authority:

    • Local governing bodies can adopt ordinances to designate specific streets or highways as open for UTV operation.
    • The ordinance must include a map and list of designated routes if it does not apply to all streets.

  3. Operational Requirements:

    • UTVs must meet the following conditions to operate on public streets:
      • Used in a manner similar to all-terrain vehicles (ATVs).
      • Equipped with at least two headlamps, rear-facing turn signals, one brake light, and seatbelts.
      • The operator must possess a valid driver's license and comply with any restrictions.
      • UTVs must be registered with the Office of Motor Vehicle and display a registration decal.
      • Liability insurance must be maintained, meeting the standards for private passenger vehicles.
      • Compliance with all applicable traffic laws.

  4. Penalties:

    • Violations of the provisions can result in a Class C misdemeanor, with fines ranging from $10 to $50, or imprisonment for up to 30 days.

Impact

  • Affected Parties:

    • Local governments will have the authority to regulate UTV operations within their jurisdictions.
    • UTV owners and operators will benefit from clearer guidelines on where and how they can legally operate their vehicles.

  • Fiscal Impact:

    • The implementation of this bill is expected to have no significant fiscal impact on the state budget. However, modifications to the Arkansas Integrated Revenue System (AIRS) will incur a project cost of approximately $22,000.

Procedural Timeline

  • February 26, 2025: Bill filed and referred to the Committee on Public Transportation.
  • March 12, 2025: The bill passed the House and was sent to the Senate.
  • April 8, 2025: The Senate adopted an amendment, and the bill was passed.
  • April 21, 2025: Notification that HB 1606 is now Act 922.

This legislation provides a framework for local governments to manage the operation of UTVs on public roads, enhancing recreational opportunities while ensuring safety and compliance with traffic regulations.

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

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