Bill would authorize operation of low-speed vehicles on state roads

Low-speed vehicles could operate on state roads under a bill advanced from general file April 18.

LB289, introduced by Omaha Sen. Heath Mello, would authorize the operation of low-speed vehicles on highways with a speed limit of 35 mph or less. Under the bill, local governments and the state Department of Roads could restrict low-speed vehicle use further for public safety purposes.

Mello said 35 other states permit the use of low-speed vehicles on state roads. The vehicles promote “positive urban design” and are used extensively on military bases, college campuses and at airports, he said.

“As fuel prices continue to rise and Nebraska families and business look to save money, [low-speed vehicles] present an alternative mode of transportation that has many potential uses,” Mello said.

The definition of low-speed vehicles would include federally compliant four-wheeled vehicles with maximum speeds greater than 20 mph but less than or equal to 25 mph and gross vehicle weights less than 3,000 pounds.

Low-speed vehicle operators would need to have a valid operator’s license and liability insurance coverage. The vehicles would be subject to titling requirements, a registration fee of $15 and a new alternative fuel fee of $75 for vehicles using a source of energy not taxed under the motor fuel laws. The alternative fuel fee would replace the alternative fuel tax.

Mello said the alternative fuel tax requires those registering a vehicle propelled by alternative power sources to obtain a permit from the state Department of Revenue. The alternative fuel fee, which would be collected during vehicle registration by the state Department of Motor Vehicles, would be less burdensome to vehicle owners, he said.

The bill would have an operative date of Jan. 1, 2012.

A Transportation and Telecommunications Committee amendment, adopted 35-0, would require smaller license plates for low-speed vehicles and institute a base fee of $50 for the motor vehicle tax and $10 for the motor vehicle fee associated with low-speed vehicles.

LB289 advanced from general file 35-0.