Amended Substitute House Bill 250 - Electric Bicycle Requirements

• Establishes three classes of electric bicycles: Class 1 (motor assistance up to 20 mph while pedaling), Class 2 (motor assistance up to 20 mph regardless of pedaling), and Class 3 (motor assistance up to 28 mph while pedaling), each with motor power less than 750 watts.

• Requires manufacturers to permanently affix labels to electric bicycles specifying the class, top assisted speed, and motor wattage as of January 1, 2020; prohibits modifications that change assisted speed without updating labels accordingly.

• Restricts Class 3 electric bicycles to riders age 16 and older who must wear protective helmets meeting federal standards, while Class 1 and Class 2 electric bicycles are permitted on most bicycle paths unless local authorities prohibit them.

• Applies existing traffic rules and regulations to electric bicycles in the same manner as traditional bicycles, including requirements for lights, reflectors, brakes, and proper riding conduct on roadways.

• Excludes electric bicycles from being classified as motor vehicles, allowing them to be parked on sidewalks and prohibiting local authorities from requiring sidewalk operation.