SB 586: Off-highway electric motorcycles.

Official summary

Legislative Counsel’s Digest (official, as of the latest version). Written by nonpartisan legislative staff; reproduced verbatim.

Existing law defines an off-highway motor vehicle as a motor vehicle that operates on lands, other than a highway, that are open and accessible to the public, as specified. Existing law establishes rules for the operation of an off-highway vehicle and imposes specified safety requirements, including, among other things, a requirement that a person operating an off-highway vehicle wear a safety helmet. Existing law requires every off-highway motor vehicle that is not registered under the Vehicle Code to display an identification plate or device issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles, except as specified. A violation of these rules and requirements is a crime.

This bill would define the term “off-highway electric motorcycle” as an off-highway motorcycle subject to identification that is (1) designed by the manufacturer for operation primarily off the highway, (2) powered by an electric motor for which a motor number is not required, (3) has handlebars for steering control, (4) has a straddle seat provided by the manufacturer, (5) has two wheels, and (6) is not equipped with pedals from the manufacturer. The bill would classify an off-highway electric motorcycle as an off-highway motor vehicle, thereby subjecting off-highway electric motorcycles to the rules and regulations relating to off-highway motor vehicles. By expanding the scope of existing crimes with respect to off-highway electric motorcycles, this bill 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.

Sponsors

Sponsors by party (alphabetical): Republican 3

“Support” is shown only as formal sponsorship recorded by the legislature. Roll-call votes are available on the official bill page.

Recent official actions

1. October 10, 2025Chaptered by Secretary of State. Chapter 588, Statutes of 2025.
2. October 10, 2025Approved by the Governor.
3. September 22, 2025Enrolled and presented to the Governor at 2 p.m.
4. September 11, 2025Assembly amendments concurred in. (Ayes 40. Noes 0. Page 2874.) Ordered to engrossing and enrolling.
5. September 9, 2025In Senate. Concurrence in Assembly amendments pending.
6. September 9, 2025Read third time. Passed. (Ayes 79. Noes 0. Page 3071.) Ordered to the Senate.
7. August 21, 2025Read second time. Ordered to third reading.
8. August 20, 2025From committee: Do pass. (Ayes 15. Noes 0.) (August 20).
9. July 16, 2025Read second time and amended. Re-referred to Com. on APPR.
10. July 15, 2025From committee: Do pass as amended and re-refer to Com. on APPR. (Ayes 11. Noes 0.) (July 15).
11. July 8, 2025From committee: Do pass and re-refer to Com. on W. P., & W. with recommendation: To consent calendar. (Ayes 16. Noes 0.) (July 7). Re-referred to Com. on W. P., & W.
12. June 16, 2025Referred to Coms. on TRANS. and W. P., & W.