Division 0 committee proposes lowering e-scooter age to 12 amid heat concerns

The Phoenix City Council meeting on June 18, 2025, focused on the age regulations for operating e-mobility devices, including e-scooters and e-bikes. A significant discussion emerged regarding the recommended age limit for youth to operate these devices, with a proposal to lower the age from 18 to 12.

Council members highlighted the need for accessible transportation options for young people, especially during the extreme heat months in Phoenix. One council member pointed out that many youths lack reliable transportation and that e-mobility devices could provide a practical solution. The original recommendation from the Division 0 committee suggested an age limit of 12, while another member proposed an age of 14 as a reasonable compromise.

The debate intensified when it was revealed that the age limit had been raised from 16 to 18 without a formal vote by the council in May 2023. This change was reportedly made by the streets department and went unnoticed by council members at the time. The council member expressed a desire to revisit this decision, emphasizing the importance of allowing youth to have safe and accessible means of transportation, particularly in challenging weather conditions.

The discussion underscored the broader implications of transportation accessibility for young residents in Phoenix, as council members considered the balance between safety and mobility for youth in the community. The council plans to further explore this issue in future meetings, aiming to ensure that young people have the necessary resources to navigate their environment safely.