H.B. 1226 Summary

• Categorizes electric bicycles into three classes based on motor assistance type and maximum assisted speed: Class 1 (pedal-assist up to 20 mph), Class 2 (throttle-assist up to 20 mph), and Class 3 (pedal-assist up to 28 mph), with all classes limited to 750-watt motors.

• Requires manufacturers and distributors to apply permanent labels to all electric bicycles specifying classification number, top assisted speed, and motor wattage by January 1, 2027.

• Establishes new operational restrictions including helmet requirements, prohibition on sidewalk operation, maximum speed limit of 28 mph, restrictions on carrying passengers, and ban on tampering with speed limiters.

• Authorizes county police to seize electric bicycles for third traffic code violations or if the speed limiter has been removed, with increased redemption penalty of $100 (plus additional $100 penalty for speed limiter removal) compared to previous $25 penalty.

• Requires counties to inform riders of applicable traffic code, safety information, and penalties at time of bicycle registration, and mandates the Department of Transportation develop statewide safety and training programs by 2026.