Sacramento - The City of Avalon on Catalina Island is one step closer to providing transportation relief for its many golf cart driving residents.  Assembly Bill 2401 by Assemblymember Betty Karnette (D – Long Beach ) has been overwhelmingly approved by the state legislature on a bipartisan vote and now proceeds to the Governor’s desk.

Various laws and obstacles make it rather difficult for Avalon drivers to register, own or operate automobiles.  Under current law, the City of Avalon may allow its residents to operate golf carts in place of automobiles.  This authority is especially handy because it reduces parking and traffic congestion and allows Catalina Islanders to provide for the movement of people and goods even when they don’t have access to an automobile.

“My bill is great for Catalina because it literally helps keep Avalon’s local economy moving,” Karnette said.  “Transportation is a core, local issue in Avalon and I thank the City and Sheriff’s staff for their work on this bill and bringing this issue to my attention.”

Avalon currently has authority to allow golf carts to be operated in the same way that automobiles are used on the mainland.  However, golf carts have changed in size, capacity and facility.  AB 2401 would allow Catalina drivers to continue using golf carts in place of automobiles, but would expand that authority by also permitting recent models of golf carts – now defined as “Avalon Autoettes” – to be used and recognized by the Department of Motor Vehicles for registration purposes.

“Catalina is a rare, beautiful wonder and we want to give the City of Avalon the power that it needs to protect the island’s local economy and natural treasures,” said Karnette.

"Senator Karnette and her staff provided great support and guidance and worked very well with City staff, the L.A. County Sheriff’s office and the California Highway Patrol in fine tuning the language in AB 2401," said Mayor Bob Kennedy.  "We are very grateful for her willingness to help on an issue so unique and important to Catalina Island."

The Governor has until September 30, 2006 to sign the measure, but his office has yet to indicate his position.