In the near future, I plan to introduce legislation that will provide greater municipal oversight of electric bicycles (eBikes) and encourage more responsible operation of eBikes on roads and sidewalks.

As background, current law permits eBikes to be operated on roads and sidewalks, but only if the eBike does not exceed certain limitations related to size, speed, weight and motor power.  Currently, there are many constituents who argue eBikes should be required to be licensed, registered and insured like a motorcycle. On the other hand, proponents of eBikes are opposed to licensing, registering and insuring electric bicycles, as they believe requiring eBikes to follow rules established for traditional bicycles is sufficient.

To address the issue, my legislation will implement a middle-ground approach by giving local municipalities the clear authority to establish ordinances for eBikes operated on roads and sidewalks and treat eBikes differently than traditional bicycles. This flexible framework will give communities the freedom to address their unique needs while simultaneously alleviating the need for a one-size-fits-all approach on eBikes. Under the legislation, a municipality may establish eBike-specific ordinances, which may require eBike registration with a reasonable registration fee, limit or prohibit eBikes on roads or sidewalks and establish fines for ordinance violations. The legislation will also authorize municipalities to establish ordinances that impose fines specifically for the operation of eBikes that exceed the limitations in current law.

Additionally, many constituents have raised issues with eBikes speeding and being carelessly operated in complete disregard for the rules of the road and pedestrian safety. Therefore, this legislation increases bicycle law violations committed on an eBike from $10 to $50, as well as creates a new fine of $100 if the careless operation of an eBike results in bodily injury. These two provisions would apply statewide and do not require municipal approval.  

I strongly encourage all members to support this legislation as it provides a common-sense solution to frequent concerns raised by constituents but does not unduly implement statewide regulations on responsible eBike owners.