RELATING TO TRANSPORTATION.
What changed between versions
Raised the minimum age for operating electric bicycles from 15 to 15 (unchanged) but clarified that individuals under 18 cannot operate electric motorcycles or motor-driven vehicles.
Increased the helmet requirement age from 16 to 18 years old for all bicycle operators on public streets and bikeways.
Requires electric motorcycle operators to carry liability insurance with minimum coverage of $20,000 per person and $40,000 per accident, matching motorcycle insurance requirements.
Allows certain electric bicycles (Class 3 with small wheels) to be operated on public sidewalks, subject to speed limits and yielding behavior.
Prohibits electric motorcycles and mopeds from driving in bicycle lanes, whereas previous law required moped drivers to use bicycle lanes.
Added new definitions for 'adaptive electric bicycle' (modified for disabilities), 'electric micro-mobility device' (standing scooters), and 'electric motorcycle' (three-wheeled vehicles exceeding 28 mph or 751 watts).
Increased the maximum rebate amount from $500 to $750 per purchase, with a total annual limit of $1,500 for low-income applicants who qualify for additional assistance.
Increased the annual program funding cap from $700,000 to $2,000,000 and renamed the program to 'Electric Mobility Rebate Program'.
Set the effective date for most provisions to July 1, 2050, with funding and helmet age changes taking effect July 1, 2025.