HF 2016 (LSB 5045YH (4) 83)

HOUSE FILE 2016

BY  ZIRKELBACH

A BILL FOR

An Act imposing an age restriction for motorcycle passengers and making a penalty applicable.
BE IT ENACTED BY THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF IOWA:

    Section 1.  Section 321.275, subsection 2, paragraph b, Code 2009, is amended to read as follows:
   b.  Motorcycles.
   (1)  A person shall not operate or ride a motorcycle on the highways with another person on the motorcycle unless the motorcycle is designed to carry more than one person. The additional passenger may ride upon the permanent and regular seat if designed for two persons, or upon another seat firmly attached to the motorcycle at the rear of the operator. The motorcycle shall be equipped with footrests for the passenger unless the passenger is riding in a sidecar or enclosed cab. The motorcycle operator shall not carry any person nor shall any other person ride in a position that will interfere with the operation or control of the motorcycle or the view of the operator.
   (2)  A person shall not operate a motorcycle on the highways with another person on the motorcycle who is under twelve years of age.
EXPLANATION
   This bill amends current law concerning the operation of motorcycles to prohibit transporting a passenger who is under 12 years of age. The provision does not apply when a motorcycle is operated in a parade authorized by permit from local authorities.
   Under existing law, a person who violates provisions relating to the transportation of passengers on a motorcycle commits a simple misdemeanor, punishable by a scheduled fine of $25. That penalty is applicable for a violation under the bill.