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, including electric unicycles, scooters, and hoverboards, and establishes the abbreviation "PEV" for these vehicles. Additionally, it modifies the definition of a "motor-driven cycle" in RSA 259:65 to include mopeds and clarifies that the motor 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 outlines specific regulations regarding the operation of PEVs, including speed limits on sidewalks and public trails, and requires operators under 16 to wear protective headgear. It also exempts PEVs from the $100 electric vehicle registration surcharge and establishes a certification process for PEV operators. The bill includes provisions for fines for violations of the speed limits and mandates reflective outerwear for PEV operators during certain hours. The act will take effect 60 days after passage, and while the fiscal impact is indeterminable, it is expected that there will be costs associated with creating the online training program for the DMV.

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