BILL NUMBER: S9054
SPONSOR: COMRIE
 
TITLE OF BILL:
An act to amend the vehicle and traffic law, in relation to regulating
electric scooter service platforms
 
PURPOSE OR GENERAL IDEA OF BILL:
This legislation establishes a statewide requirement that electric
scooter service platforms maintain liability insurance coverage for
scooters made available to the public through 'a digital network.
 
SUMMARY OF PROVISIONS:
Section 1 adds a new Article 34-E to the Vehicle and Traffic Law,
§ 1290 defines key terms, including "digital network," "electric scooter
service platform," and "trip."
§ 1291 requires electric scooter service platforms to maintain liability
insurance coverage for scooters' offered for public use. The section
establishes minimum coverage amounts, specifies the scope of coverage
during a trip accessed through a digital network, requires that coverage
be primary, and sets forth requirements for producing proof of insur-
ance.
Section 2 provides the effective date and authorizes necessary rulemak-
ing.
 
JUSTIFICATION:
Electric scooter usage has increased dramatically in recent years,
offering new transportation options but also introducing new challenges
regarding public safety, proper street placement, and liability when
accidents occur. Currently, .there is no uniform statewide requirement
ensuring that electric scooter service platforms maintain insurance
coverage for injuries or property damage arising from scooter use.
This legislation addresses that gap by requiring electric scooter
service platforms to carry liability insurance covering operators,
pedestrians, and property owners during the duration of a scooter trip.
By establishing clear insurance requirements, this bill promotes
accountability, protects the public, and provides greater certainty for
individuals harmed in scooter-related incidents.
 
PRIOR LEGISLATIVE HISTORY:
New bill.
 
FISCAL IMPLICATIONS:
To be determined.
 
EFFECTIVE DATE:
This act shall take effect on the one hundred eightieth day after it