This bill introduces regulations for personal electric vehicles (PEVs) by defining them as motor-driven or hybrid vehicles used for recreation or transport, excluding electric bicycles. It amends existing laws to include a new section in RSA 259 that specifies what constitutes a PEV, which includes electric unicycles, scooters, skateboards, and similar devices. Additionally, it modifies the definition of a "motor-driven cycle" in RSA 259:65 to include mopeds and clarifies that these vehicles must not exceed 5 horsepower. The bill also mandates that individuals over 16 years old who operate a PEV without a driver's license must complete an online safety course provided by the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) before operating the vehicle.

Furthermore, the bill establishes a registration system for PEVs, requiring operators to obtain a safety certificate instead of a traditional vehicle registration due to the lack of vehicle identification numbers. It sets speed limits for PEVs on various types of public pathways and mandates the use of protective gear for younger operators. The bill also exempts PEVs from the $100 electric vehicle registration surcharge applicable to full-size electric vehicles. The effective date of the act is set for 60 days after its passage, and while the fiscal impact is indeterminable, it is expected that there will be some costs associated with creating the online training program.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 259:65, 265:60, 261:3