Newly minted to drive alone

on Peachtree City's golf cart paths, 15-year-olds with state learner's

permits can now take their siblings for a spin, too.

The City Council has approved

a new ordinance that allows "up to three immediate family members"

to ride with the permitted 15-year-olds, who until now could only drive

with one passenger who is at least 15 years old also.

The change was opposed by Mayor

Steve Brown, who said younger siblings could cause more of a distraction

than necessary.

But other council members argued

parents should have the right to decide if their 15-year-old is responsible

enough to take care of the younger children.

"They (parents) are the

first governing body of that," said councilman Murray Weed.

Weed asked parents to use caution

when making those decisions, however.

"This will make it easier

for families to transport family members," said councilman Dan Tennant.

The measure passed 3-1 with

Brown against and councilwoman Annie McMenamin absent.

The city Tuesday issued a reminder

that parents must supervise their teen cart drivers, as follows:

"The City Council adopted

several changes to the golf cart Ordinance on Sept. 5 and Sept. 19. These

changes affect the legal operation of golf carts on both streets and paths

within the city limits. Residents are reminded that:

"No one who has had their

drivers license suspended or revoked may operate a golf cart on streets

or paths.

"No one may be standing

on the cart when the cart is in operation.

"No one may sit in the

driver's lap while the cart is in operation.

"Twelve- to 14-year-olds

may drive a golf cart on the [cart paths] with a parent, grandparent or

guardian in the front seat (the law used to require a licensed parent

or guardian).

"Fifteen-year olds may

drive a golf cart with a parent, grandparent or guardian in the front

seat, or with a licensed person 18 or older in the front seat.

"Fifteen-year olds with

a valid learner's permit may also drive alone, accompanied by a maximum

of one other person at least 15 years of age, or accompanied by no more

than three immediate family members.

"Parents are asked to

educate their 15-year-olds on the rules of the road. All traffic signage

and requirements apply to golf carts on streets."

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