Illinois Senate Passes Bill to Regulate E-Bikes and E-Scooters
The Illinois Senate has unanimously passed legislation establishing a comprehensive regulatory framework for electric bicycles, motorcycles, and scooters. Initiated by Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias, the bill addresses safety concerns arising from the rapid proliferation of these devices, which have seen a 300% increase in related injuries and fatalities nationwide since 2019. The new law mandates that riders of high-speed e-bikes and e-motos exceeding 28 mph must possess a driver’s license, title, registration, and insurance. It also sets a minimum age of 16 for most electric micromobility vehicles, with exceptions for 15-year-olds on lower-speed e-bikes, and prohibits speeds over 28 mph on public paths. This measure aims to replace inconsistent local ordinances with uniform statewide standards, a move supported by the Illinois Municipal League. The bill now proceeds to the House for further consideration, seeking to clarify legal expectations for riders, law enforcement, and local governments amidst evolving transportation technology.
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Illinois Senate Passes Bill to Regulate E-Bikes and E-Scooters
The Illinois Senate has unanimously passed legislation establishing a comprehensive regulatory framework for electric bicycles, motorcycles, and scooters. Initiated by Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias, the bill addresses safety concerns arising from the rapid proliferation of these devices, which have seen a 300% increase in related injuries and fatalities nationwide since 2019. The new law mandates that riders of high-speed e-bikes and e-motos exceeding 28 mph must possess a driver’s license, title, registration, and insurance. It also sets a minimum age of 16 for most electric micromobility vehicles, with exceptions for 15-year-olds on lower-speed e-bikes, and prohibits speeds over 28 mph on public paths. This measure aims to replace inconsistent local ordinances with uniform statewide standards, a move supported by the Illinois Municipal League. The bill now proceeds to the House for further consideration, seeking to clarify legal expectations for riders, law enforcement, and local governments amidst evolving transportation technology.
chicagotribune