Loading chat...
IN SB0361
Bill
Status
1/10/2019
Primary Sponsor
Michael Crider
Click for details
AI Summary
-
Defines "electric bicycle" as a bicycle with operable pedals and an electric motor not exceeding 750 watts, and classifies it as a bicycle rather than a motor vehicle—exempting operators from driver's license, registration, title, and financial responsibility requirements.
-
Creates three classes of electric bicycles: Class 1 (pedal-assist up to 20 mph), Class 2 (throttle-capable up to 20 mph), and Class 3 (pedal-assist up to 28 mph).
-
Requires manufacturers to affix permanent labels starting January 1, 2020 displaying class level, top assisted speed, and motor wattage; all electric bicycles must comply with U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission requirements (16 CFR 1512).
-
Restricts Class 3 electric bicycles from trails and paths unless adjacent to a roadway or authorized by local/state authorities; prohibits operators under 15 years of age from operating Class 3 e-bikes and requires helmets for riders under 18 on Class 3 models.
-
Authorizes local authorities and state agencies to regulate or prohibit electric bicycle use on natural-surface trails where motorized vehicles are already prohibited.
Legislative Description
Electric bicycles. Defines the term "electric bicycle" as a bicycle equipped with: (1) operable pedals; and (2) an electric motor with a power output not greater than 750 watts. Provides that an electric bicycle is not a motor vehicle. Provides that the operator of an electric bicycle is: (1) subject to all of the duties; and (2) entitled to all of the rights and privileges; of a bicycle operator. Provides that an electric bicycle shall be regulated as a bicycle. Provides certain exceptions. Exempts the operator of an electric bicycle from motor vehicle statutes concerning: (1) driver's licenses; and (2) financial responsibility. Exempts electric bicycles from motor vehicle statutes concerning: (1) certificates of title; (2) registration; and (3) off-road vehicles. Requires manufacturers and distributors of electric bicycles to affix and prominently display a label with the following information on each electric bicycle: (1) The class level of the electric bicycle. (2) The top assisted speed of the electric bicycle. (3) The total power output of the electric bicycle's electric motor. Requires all electric bicycles to comply with certain requirements adopted by the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission. Requires all electric bicycles to be equipped with an electric motor that disengages or ceases to function when the operator: (1) stops pedaling; or (2) applies brakes. Specifies where electric bicycles may be operated. Allows a local authority or state agency with jurisdiction over a trail, bicycle path, or multipurpose path to regulate the use of electric bicycles on a trail, bicycle path, or multipurpose path subject to the local authority's or state agency's jurisdiction. Prohibits a person under 15 years of age from operating certain electric bicycles. Allows a person under 15 years of age to ride as a passenger on certain electric bicycles. Requires a properly fitted and fastened helmet capable of meeting certain safety standards to be worn by certain individuals when operating or riding on certain electric bicycles. Defines certain terms. Makes conforming amendments.
Last Action
First reading: referred to Committee on Homeland Security and Transportation
1/10/2019