The bill amends sections 4507.11, 4508.02, and 4511.522 of the Revised Code to enhance regulations regarding the operation, education, and safety of electric bicycles in Ohio. Key provisions include the requirement for the registrar of motor vehicles to test applicants on safely operating vehicles near pedestrians and bicyclists, including those on electric bicycles. Additionally, manufacturers and distributors are mandated to provide educational materials to purchasers about Ohio laws and safety guidelines for electric bicycle operation. The bill also emphasizes helmet use for riders under sixteen on class 3 electric bicycles and establishes penalties for violations of these regulations. Existing sections of the Revised Code related to these topics are repealed to accommodate the new provisions.

Moreover, the bill mandates a study to evaluate the definitions and classifications of various motorized vehicles, including mopeds, scooters, off-highway motorcycles, and mini-bikes, as well as their modern uses and operations. This study will assess the potential benefits and challenges of implementing additional statewide safety training or requirements for riders of Class 3 electric bicycles, off-highway motorcycles, and mini-bikes, while considering existing statutes and local governance. The Director is tasked with examining regulations and registration laws from other states and local jurisdictions within Ohio, and a report detailing the findings and recommendations from the study must be submitted within three months of the bill's effective date to key state leaders.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 4507.11, 4508.02, 4511.522