BILL NUMBER: S10239
SPONSOR: COMRIE
 
TITLE OF BILL:
An act to amend the general business law, in relation to e-scooter
mobile app disclosures
 
PURPOSE OR GENERAL IDEA OF BILL:
To enhance consumer safety by requiring electric scooter service plat-
forms to provide clear and conspicuous warnings regarding age
restrictions.
 
SUMMARY OF PROVISIONS:
Section 1 of the bill adds a new section 391-CCC to the general business
law. It defines key terms, including "electric scooter service platform"
and "digital network."
The bill requires that electric scooter service platforms display speci-
fied warning messages either directly on the scooter or within the plat-
form's digital interface (such as a mobile application). These warnings
must inform users that individuals under the age of eighteen are prohib-
ited from operating or riding such scooters.
The bill establishes civil penalties for violations, not to exceed $250
for a first offense and $500 for subsequent offenses. Enforcement
authority is granted to local consumer affairs offices and municipal
legal officers, with collected penalties retained by the enforcing
locality.
Section 2 provides that the act shall take effect 180 days after it
becomes law.
 
JUSTIFICATION:
The rapid expansion of electric scooter rental services has introduced
new safety concerns, particularly regarding underage use. Users may not
always receive clear or consistent safety information when accessing
these platforms.
This bill requires standardized, conspicuous warnings to ensure users
are aware of age restrictions. Providing this information promotes safer
use and supports compliance with existing law.
 
PRIOR LEGISLATIVE HISTORY:
New bill.
 
FISCAL IMPLICATIONS FOR STATE AND LOCAL GOVERNMENTS:
None.
 
EFFECTIVE DATE:
This act shall take effect on the one hundred eightieth day after it
shall have become a law.