LANSING — Expanded permitted use of golf carts on Michigan neighborhood streets appears likely, as both chambers of the Legislature have passed similar bills with strong bipartisan support.
The Detroit Free Press reported April 29 that the Legislature was considering approval of a major expansion on where golf carts can be used.
Under current law, municipalities with populations of 30,000 or less can opt to allow use of golf carts on local streets. House Bill 4644 would expand that option to cities, villages and townships with populations of up to 65,000.
House Bill 4644 passed the state Republican-controlled House June 2 in an 87-18 vote.
And on June 18, the Democratic-controlled Senate passed Senate Bill 900, which has similar provisions, in a 35-1 vote.
Now, the two chambers must decide which version they want to send to Democratic Gov. Gretchen Whitmer for her signature, along with possible amendments.
Where permitted, use of golf carts on community streets is subject to certain state law restrictions, including:
In an analysis, the Senate Fiscal Agency said the bill “could reduce vehicle registrations and gasoline tax if people use a golf cart to travel rather than a car or truck.” That would result in a loss of revenue for the Michigan Department of Transportation and local governments, the agency said, though it did not say how much revenue it expected would be lost.
Other questions remain, such as what insurance requirements golf cart drivers would face.
Contact Paul Egan: 517-372-8660 or pegan@freepress.com.
This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Michigan Senate joins House in approving expanded use of golf carts
Reporting by Paul Egan, Detroit Free Press / Detroit Free Press
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By Paul Egan, Detroit Free Press | USA TODAY Network
