The bill proposes an amendment to Title 31 of the General Laws, specifically by adding a new chapter, Chapter 19.7, which focuses on the regulation of electric bicycles (e-bikes) and electric scooters (e-scooters) in the City of Newport. The new chapter would grant the city council of Newport the authority to create ordinances that govern the use and operation of e-bikes and e-scooters within the city limits. These ordinances may cover aspects such as the age of operators, licensing requirements, registration, and insurance, as long as they do not conflict with any existing general laws.
Additionally, the bill allows the Newport city council to determine which roadways and areas e-bikes and e-scooters can be operated on, effectively enabling the city to designate permitted and prohibited zones for these vehicles. The bill specifies that any ordinances enacted by the city council should not contradict state laws. The act would become effective immediately upon passage, allowing the City of Newport to begin the regulation process for e-bikes and e-scooters without delay.