This bill mandates that all bicycles and electric bicycles operating on public ways alongside other motor vehicles must be equipped with a 4-inch diameter mirror on each side of the handlebars. The requirement is not applicable to bicycle paths or trails where motor vehicles are prohibited, but bicycles on marked bicycle lanes along public ways are not exempt from this requirement. The bill amends RSA 265:143, I, inserting language to include electric bicycles alongside human-powered vehicles and bicycles, and specifying the mirror requirement. It also deletes the word "or" to accommodate the inclusion of electric bicycles in the text.

The fiscal note attached to the bill indicates that there is no immediate fiscal impact on state, county, or local budgets. The expenditures are indeterminable as it is unclear how many charges might be brought as a result of this new requirement. The Judicial Branch estimates that the potential cost per case for violation/misdemeanor level offenses would be $122 in FY 2024, not including appeals. The bill is set to take effect 60 days after its passage, with the assumption that any fiscal impact would not occur until FY 2024. Agencies contacted regarding this bill include the Judicial Branch.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 265:143