The bill amends various sections of Rhode Island's General Laws in Chapter 31-1, focusing on definitions and regulations related to vehicles, particularly electric and motorized options. It introduces new definitions for "electric motorized bicycle" and "electric personal assistive mobility device" (EPAMD), allowing individuals aged sixteen and older to operate these vehicles on state and municipal roads without registration. The bill also expands the definition of motorcycles to include a two or three-wheeled self-propelled vehicle designed for public road use that displaces in excess of fifty cubic centimeters (50 cc) or four and nine-tenths horsepower (4.9 hp). Additionally, it updates the definition of motor scooters to include both gasoline-powered and electric variants, specifying that they are capable of a maximum speed of not more than thirty miles per hour (30 mph) and are not required to be registered under certain conditions.

Moreover, the legislation establishes a licensing requirement for operating motorcycles, motorized bicycles, and motorized tricycles, with specific provisions for operators under the age of sixteen. It introduces a new classification for electric bicycles, which includes four classes, with Class 4 defined as bicycles equipped with an electric motor exceeding seven hundred fifty watts (750W) and a top assisted speed over twenty-eight miles per hour (28 mph). The bill mandates that all businesses selling electric bicycles prominently display state laws regulating electric bicycles and requires the Rhode Island office of energy resources to notify electric bicycle rebate recipients of applicable state laws.

The bill prohibits the use of wireless handsets while operating any motor vehicle, including electric bicycles, electric-powered motor scooters, motorized skateboards, and EPAMDs. Local authorities are empowered to adopt regulations consistent with the new chapter dedicated to the regulation of powered wheeled devices and micromobility vehicles, which includes detailed requirements for registration, licensing, and safety. The Department of Motor Vehicles is tasked with creating a centralized informational page to clarify laws and requirements for these vehicles, ensuring that the information remains current and accessible. The act is set to take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
2604: 31-1-3, 31-10.1-1, 31-19.7-1, 31-22-30