| Start Date: | 2/3/2012 | | | | End Date: | 2/3/2012 | | |
STATEHOUSE- Safety for moped drivers was the focus of House Bill (HB) 1197, legislation that would require a title and registration for mopeds. Rep. Tim Neese (R-Elkhart) co-authored the bill which passed out of the House this past week.
“This bill is a step forward in moped driver safety,” said Rep. Neese. “We want to ensure that the highest degree of safety available is provided, whether on a moped or a motor vehicle.”
HB 1197 has the following provisions:
- Provides that a moped operated on a highway must be titled and registered with the Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV)
- Requires the operator of a moped on a highway to have an identification card or driver's license when operating the moped
“The safety concerns and dangers facing moped drivers need to be addressed in the best way they can be,” said Rep. Neese. “This legislation asks for moped drivers to have a form of identification, whether it is an I.D. or driver’s license, to operate a moped. The Indiana Sheriff's Association and the American Bikers Aimed Toward Education of Indiana both support the bill.”
In recent years, mopeds have seen various enhancements, making them capable of running at higher speeds similar to a small motorcycle. Current Indiana traffic laws, however, have not recognized a moped and its similarity in speed to a motorcycle; therefore the safety regulations for moped operators have been less, creating a safety concern.
Motorcycles are licensed under current Indiana law with the Bureau of Motor Vehicles, insured and subject to specific safety requirements.
The bill was passed out of the House with a 76-20 vote.
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Rep. Tim Neese represents District 48 which includes parts of Elkhart County and parts of St. Joseph County. Rep. Neese is the Chairman of the Local Government Committee, and a member of the Utilities and Energy Committee, Statutory Committee on Interstate and International Cooperation. Neese NR - Moped bill passes House.docx |
