NY S05021

Expands the definition of "bicycle" to include motor-assisted devices not capable of being registered by New York State Department of Motor Vehicles, and adds new term "bicycle operator" to include both employees and independent contractors of businesses using bicycles for commercial purposes.

Requires businesses using bicycles for commercial purposes to provide identification signs on bicycles (minimum 3" x 5"), assign three-digit identification numbers to operators, issue identification cards to operators, and maintain rosters of all bicycle operators including employment dates and safety course completion.

Mandates businesses provide protective headgear meeting federal safety standards and require all bicycle operators to complete a bicycle safety course prior to operating; requires businesses to maintain records of course completion available for inspection by authorized personnel.

Requires businesses to provide bicycles equipped with lamps, bells, brakes, and reflective materials, and bicycle operators to wear retro-reflective apparel with business name and operator identification number while making deliveries.

Establishes penalties of $100-$250 fines (without imprisonment) for business violations and $25-$50 fines for operator traffic infractions for non-compliance; allows affirmative defense for businesses that contract delivery services to other companies rather than directly employing operators.