North Carolina could require moped insurance

RALEIGH -- Legislation placing new requirements on moped owners in North Carolina is just one vote away from Gov. Pat McCrory's desk.

The state Senate gave tentative approval by a 39-9 vote Monday night to a House bill requiring that the low-powered motor bikes get liability insurance. A law requiring that mopeds be registered with the state is already set to go into effect July 1.

The Senate needs to give it final approval - possibly Tuesday- before it goes to McCrory.

Some senators such as Democratic Sen. Floyd McKissick of Durham voiced concerns during floor debate that the insurance requirement would disadvantage poor or rural riders.

A House bill sponsor said last week annual insurance premiums could range from $90 to $380, depending on driving history.