The Russell County Fiscal Court held the first reading of an ordinance approving side-by-sides and other special purpose vehicles that meet certain requirements to be operated on county roadways.
During the first reading of the ordinance last week, 4th District Magistrate Steve Richardson questioned whether there were any age-restrictions for passengers on these vehicles. The state law on the issue requires drivers to have a valid driver’s license, but there are no age-restrictions on passengers.
Richardson ultimately made a motion that would require any passenger in these vehicles to be at least 16 years old. That motion died due to a lack of a second.
Under the ordinance, side-by-sides and other special purpose vehicles that pass inspection by the sheriff’s office, are licensed by the county clerk’s office, and insured will be permitted to be operated on county roadways.
A second reading and vote on the ordinance is expected at next month’s fiscal court meeting on September 8.
