Following a Number of ‘Serious Injuries’, Florida House Proposes a Major Step for Golf Cart Menace

In the coming times, the golf industry might see a few additional adjustments. This year, LIV Golf underwent a rebranding with new teams and players. While the PGA Tour raised the prize purse of their events. And now, the minimum age for driving a golf cart may see some changes.

In Florida, a House bill introduced on Monday proposed to raise the requirement for golf cart drivers from 14 to 16 years old. But why make such a huge proposal in the first place?

What is the need to increase the minimum age of golf cart drivers?

Cyndi Stevenson, a St. Johns’ representative, was the one to file the proposal. She believes the golf cart drivers must have a valid driver’s license to handle the cart better. If not a license, they should have a learner’s permit, not suspended or revoked by the officials. According to her, violation of the law would be a noncriminal traffic infraction.

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Stevenson talked to First Coast News and explained why the age increment bill serves the purpose. She is big-time for all the safety regulations. And she believes that by adopting new options for better mobility, we must also evolve the safety rules.

The St. Johns’ representative backed her words with facts and said, “We are seeing more people in the ER with serious avoidable injuries. This bill is a common sense way to reduce pain, suffering, trips to the ER, and even loss of life.” Stevenson strongly believes that the people of Tallahassee are expecting better safety measures.

According to the rules stated by St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office, golf carts are allowed in public, but it has terms and conditions. One can ride the golf cart on only a few designated public roads. The speed limit cannot exceed 25 miles per hour. Earlier, a sheriff was caught exploiting her power on a golf cart, and now this. However, if the bill is passed, it will come into effect from July 1, 2023. 

Is everyone supporting the proposal for an age increase?

The bill might reduce the injury percentage if passed. However, before that, it is facing some resentment. A 14-year-old Noah Hodge opposed the age increment and said, “I think it should stay at 14.” Hodge drove a golf cart and was on one with his friends when he expressed his views. He was at Nocatee Town Center on Monday and explained why 14 is the right age.

He said, “It teaches you how to drive when you’re 16 too, because you’ll be safer on an actual road with a car which is more dangerous with a golf cart.”

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Should the minimum age for golf cart drivers be increased?