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HB 4644

Vehicles: other; operation of golf carts on streets and county roads in certain municipalities; allow. Amends sec. 657a of 1949 PA 300 (MCL 257.657a).

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Greg Alexander and 7 co-sponsors

HB 4644 permits golf carts to operate on streets and county roads in specific Michigan municipalities, expanding authorized use beyond golf courses.

bill ordered enrolled
#stateagencies(existing):state #trafficcontrol:trafficregulation #vehicles:other
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Bill Summary · HB 4644

Legislative bill overview

HB 4644 amends Michigan's vehicle code to permit golf carts to operate on streets and county roads in certain municipalities. The bill modifies Section 657a of the Michigan Vehicle Code, which currently restricts where golf carts can be legally driven. This represents an expansion of allowable golf cart use beyond their traditional golf course settings.

Why is this important

Golf cart usage has grown substantially in retirement communities, resort areas, and small towns where they offer a lower-cost, lower-speed transportation alternative. Permitting their street operation could improve mobility options for residents in qualifying municipalities while reducing traffic congestion and emissions in designated areas. However, it also raises questions about safety standards, insurance requirements, and which municipalities qualify for this exemption.

Potential points of contention

  • Safety and liability concerns: Golf carts lack the safety features of standard vehicles (airbags, crumple zones, seatbelts in most models), raising accident risk in mixed traffic environments
  • Undefined municipal eligibility: The bill references "certain municipalities" without specifying which communities qualify, creating ambiguity about implementation and potential disparate access
  • Insurance and registration requirements: Unclear whether golf carts would need special licensing, registration, or insurance, and who bears liability in accidents involving unequally protected vehicles

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

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