Transportation (Bicycle Infrastructure)

This bill establishes rules for bicycles, electric personal mobility devices, and pedestrian conveyances on public roads and sidewalks. It requires users to follow device manufacturer guidelines, prohibits carrying items that block steering, and bans sidewalk use for class 3 e-bikes (requiring riders under 16 to ride as passengers only). The law sets a 25 mph speed limit on roads and 20 mph on sidewalks, mandates functional brakes, and requires front/rear lights during low-light conditions. Violations are classified as simple misdemeanors with a $25 fine, while users are exempt from vehicle registration, licensing, and insurance requirements.

This bill (SF 375) changes the maximum allowable power for electric motors on low-speed e-bikes and pedestrian conveyances (like scooters, wheelchairs, and strollers) from "less than 750 watts" to "not more than 750 watts." It directly affects manufacturers, sellers, and users of these devices by allowing motors up to exactly 750 watts, rather than capping them below that threshold. Devices exceeding 750 watts would then be classified as motor vehicles under standard traffic laws. The bill clarifies definitions and technical standards without altering broader vehicle regulations.

HF 765 updates the legal definitions for low-speed electric bicycles and pedestrian conveyances that use electric motors. Currently, these devices are defined as having electric motors that produce *less than* 750 watts of power. The bill amends this to specify that their electric motors must produce *not more than* 750 watts. This change clarifies that devices with motors producing exactly 750 watts will now be included under these classifications, rather than being subject to motor vehicle laws.

SF 489 requires Iowa's Department of Transportation (DOT) to ensure equal representation from both government entities (like cities or counties) and non-governmental groups (such as private developers or community organizations) when creating statewide urban design specifications. These specifications guide how cities plan and build transportation infrastructure, like streets and public spaces. The bill amends existing DOT duties to explicitly include this requirement in their planning responsibilities. It does not change the DOT's other core functions, such as highway maintenance or transportation data reporting. The bill is currently under review by the Transportation committee.