Existing law regulates the operation of bicycles, motorized scooters, and electric personal assistive mobility devices, as defined.
This bill would define the term "eMoto" as an electric two-wheeled device built on a bicycle infrastructure that does not have pedals or an engine number and is not subject to registration under the Vehicle Code.
Existing law defines an off-highway motor vehicle as a motor vehicle that operates on lands, other than a highway, that are open and accessible to the public, as specified. Existing law establishes rules for the operation of an off-highway vehicle and imposes specified safety requirements, including, among other things, a requirement that a person operating an off-highway vehicle wear a safety helmet. Existing law requires every off-highway motor vehicle that is not registered under the Vehicle Code to display an identification plate or device issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles, except as specified. A violation of these rules and requirements is a crime.
This bill would classify an eMoto as an off-highway motor vehicle, thereby subjecting eMotos to the rules and regulations relating to off-highway motor vehicles, including requiring eMotos to be subject to identification. The bill would require the Department of the California Highway Patrol, in consultation with local law enforcement, to implement a program to educate the public on the proper use and operation of eMotos as off-highway vehicles and to promote the compliance of eMotos with the rules and regulations described above. By expanding the scope of existing crimes with respect to eMotos, this bill would impose a state-mandated local program.
(2) Existing law, the Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Recreation Act of 2003, creates the Division of Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Recreation. Existing law requires the division to, among other things, prepare and coordinate safety and education programs and provide for the enforcement of the off-highway vehicle rules and regulations described above in all areas acquired, maintained, or operated by funds from the Off-Highway Vehicle Trust Fund.
The bill would require the division, in consultation with the Department of the California Highway Patrol, to develop guidelines for the operation of eMotos in state vehicular recreation areas.
(3) The California Constitution requires the state to reimburse local agencies and school districts for certain costs mandated by the state. Statutory provisions establish procedures for making that reimbursement.
This bill would provide that no reimbursement is required by this act for a specified reason.

Statutes affected:
SB 586: 38010 VEH, 38012 VEH
02/20/25 - Introduced: 38010 VEH, 38012 VEH