The bill amends R.S.39:1-1 to establish regulations for motorized bicycles in New Jersey, introducing a new definition for "motorized bicycle" as a pedal bicycle equipped with a helper motor that has a maximum piston displacement of less than 50 cc or a motor rated at no more than 1.5 brake horsepower. It clarifies that this definition excludes low-speed electric bicycles and low-speed electric scooters. Additionally, the bill defines "pedicab" as a wheeled device for passenger transport that may be propelled by muscular power or an electric motor, with specific limitations on the motor's power. The bill also deletes the previous definitions of "low-speed electric bicycle" and modifies the definition of "motor vehicle" to exclude motorized bicycles, low-speed electric bicycles, and low-speed electric scooters.

Moreover, the bill expands the classification of motorized bicycles, requiring owners to comply with existing laws regarding insurance, licensing, and registration, while providing a six-month grace period for registration and insurance after the bill's effective date. It stipulates that operators must be at least 17 years old with a valid driver's license, while those aged 15 and older can operate a motorized bicycle with a motorized bicycle license. The bill also introduces provisions for registering certain motorized bicycles through a sworn affidavit, establishes penalties for false documentation, waives fees for the first year for newly classified bicycles, and mandates law enforcement to report accidents involving motorized bicycles to relevant state agencies.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 27:5F-45, 39:4-14.3, 39:4-14.16, 39:4-92.4