AB 2462: Neighborhood electric vehicles: County of Los Angeles: Westside Planned Communities.

Existing law defines low-speed vehicle for purposes of the Vehicle Code as a motor vehicle with 4 wheels that is capable of a minimum speed of 20 miles per hour and a maximum speed of 25 miles per hour on a paved level surface and that has a gross vehicle weight rating of less than 3,000 pounds. Existing law imposes certain restrictions on the use of low-speed vehicles on public streets and highways, and generally requires an operator of a low-speed vehicle to have a drivers license. A low-speed vehicle is also known as a neighborhood electric vehicle (NEV). A violation of the Vehicle Code is an infraction, unless otherwise specified.

Existing law authorizes certain local agencies to establish a NEV transportation plan subject to certain requirements. A person operating a NEV in a plan area in violation of certain provisions is guilty of an infraction punishable by a fine not exceeding $100.

This bill would authorize the County of Los Angeles to establish a similar NEV transportation plan for the Westside Planned Communities in that county, subject to the same penalties. The bill would require a report to the Legislature by August 31, 2028, containing certain information and recommendations related to the NEV transportation plan. The bill would repeal these provisions on January 1, 2040. Because the bill would create a new crime, it would impose a state-mandated local program.

The California Constitution requires the state to reimburse local agencies and school districts for certain costs mandated by the state. Statutory provisions establish procedures for making that reimbursement.

This bill would provide that no reimbursement is required by this act for a specified reason.