Transportation (Vehicle Registration)

HB 1188 clarifies that law enforcement, highway patrols, or authorized personnel must arrange for the removal of disabled vehicles (or spilled cargo) from highways, roadside areas, or public waters if they obstruct traffic or create safety hazards. Vehicle owners are responsible for all removal costs incurred by the state or local agencies. The bill limits liability for officials and removal agencies, stating they cannot be held liable for damages to the vehicle, cargo, or personal property unless there was gross negligence or willful misconduct during removal. This directly affects vehicle owners (who pay costs) and public safety officials (who gain liability protection under defined conditions).

This bill adopts specific federal motor carrier regulations from Title 49 of the Code of Federal Regulations for South Dakota operations, with key modifications. It expands the application of federal rules to most intrastate operations (excluding small vehicles under 26,000 lbs not carrying hazardous materials or over 15 passengers), sets a minimum age of 21 for drivers in interstate commerce or handling hazardous materials, and exempts intrastate drivers from federal medical certification requirements unless required by employers. These changes directly affect commercial motor vehicle operators, drivers, and safety enforcement within South Dakota. The bill updates state law to align with federal standards while clarifying exemptions for smaller, non-hazardous intrastate operations.

SB 24 creates a new solid black or solid white license plate option for South Dakota residents. It allows owners of eligible vehicles (cars, trucks, vans, motorcycles) with valid licenses to purchase these plates for a $100 annual fee. Of this fee, $25 funds a special revenue account and $75 supports the state highway fund. Personalization is available for an extra $25, and plates can be transferred like existing specialty plates.

HB 1227 increases the annual registration fee for owners of electric motor vehicles in South Dakota from $50 to $51 (likely a typo for $50, as "fifty one hundred" is inconsistent with standard fee amounts). The fee applies when renewing vehicle registration and must be paid alongside standard license fees, excluding electric motorcycles covered under separate law. All collected fees are deposited into the state highway fund. The bill specifically defines "electric motor vehicle" as noncommercial, battery-rechargeable vehicles meeting federal safety standards.