You may soon see golf carts on local streets in Georgia.  Governor Nathan Deal signed legislation Thursday that creates a new class of motor vehicles for golf carts.

Deal tells WSB it will take effect in January.  "I think it is one of those things where we set certain criteria for golf carts but we still leave local jurisdictions the choice as to whether or not they wish to authorize them on their streets," said Deal.

The law allows golf carts with some safety features capable of traveling up to 20 mph on the roads if local jurisdicitions allow it. Former Governor Sonny Perdue vetoed similar legislation last year.

Georgia is one of the world's largest manufacturers of golf carts. "It is a jobs issue.  If it increases the demand for golf carts then that provides more jobs generally for the state of Georgia.  I think that's a good idea," said Deal.

Deal signed the legislation in Augusta.