The bill introduces a new chapter to Title 31 of the General Laws, creating a framework for the regulation of electric bicycles by classifying them into three categories. Class 1 electric bicycles provide assistance only while the rider is pedaling and cease to assist at 20 mph, Class 2 are throttle-actuated and also cease at 20 mph, and Class 3 are similar to Class 1 but cease assistance at 28 mph. The bill allows the Department of Environmental Management to regulate electric bicycles on state properties and mandates that Class 1 electric bicycles are allowed on state bicycle trails or paths. Additionally, it requires operators and passengers under 21 to wear helmets on public ways and amends the definition of "electric motorized bicycle" in the General Laws to reflect these new classifications, removing the previous 25 mph speed limit to accommodate the new 28 mph limit for Class 3 electric bicycles.

The bill also updates definitions for various vehicle types, including "jitney or bus," "low-speed motor vehicle," and others, and introduces a new section defining "bicycle lane" as a highway part exclusively for bicyclists. It does not specify the exact deletions from the current law but indicates that there are insertions and deletions made. The bill sets the effective date for these changes as July 1, 2024, and includes additional definitions related to roadways and paths to provide context for where Class 1 electric bicycles can be used.

Statutes affected:
2829: 31-19-2.1