State Senator Broadman of Bend, colleagues to try again on bill to allow small Kei trucks on Oregon highways

SALEM, Ore. (KTVZ) — State Representatives Virgle Osborne (R-Roseburg) and Alek Skarlatos (R-Canyonville) and Senator Anthony Broadman (D-Bend) are reintroducing bipartisan legislation for the 2026 legislative session to allow the registration and on-road use of Kei trucks in Oregon.

"The bill responds to continued interest from small businesses, farmers, contractors, and community members seeking affordable, practical transportation options that better match their needs and scale," the news release said, continuing below:.

This bill is a continuation of efforts in the 2025 session to modernize Oregon’s vehicle laws in response to rising transportation costs and evolving workforce needs.

Kei trucks are compact, lightweight utility vehicles commonly used in other states for agriculture, maintenance, deliveries, and job-site operations. While legal to own and operate on private property in Oregon, current law prevents these vehicles from being registered for on-road use, limiting their usefulness for many working Oregonians.

“Across much of Oregon, functionality and efficiency are more important than vehicle size. Kei trucks are affordable, well-suited for a wide range of jobs, and meet real needs in rural and working communities.” said Representative Osborne. “This bill provides flexibility while maintaining Oregon’s existing safety standards.”

Supporters of the legislation say allowing on-road registration would help reduce transportation costs, expand access to reliable equipment, and give small businesses and rural operators more flexibility to move between job sites and communities.

Senator Broadman said, “Expanding access to affordable, right-sized transportation helps remove cost barriers for small businesses and working Oregonians and supports stronger local economies across the state.”

Representative Skarlatos said, “Our laws should reflect the freedom to use the right vehicle for the right job. We have an opportunity to ensure our transportation system reflects the real needs of Oregonians.”

The bill establishes clear parameters defining Kei trucks by size, engine capacity and age, and allows them to be registered within Oregon’s existing motor vehicle framework. The approach aligns Oregon with neighboring states that have already adopted similar policies while maintaining existing safety and roadway standards.