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Committee advances bill to create low‑power moped class, tighten e‑bike labeling and improve safety rules
Summary
SB 455 would clarify what constitutes an e‑bike, create a new low‑power moped category limited to 30 mph with licensing requirements, and require improved labeling/notifications; supporters say it protects riders and consumers, manufacturers urged consistent national labeling and opposed retroactive compliance burdens.
The Senate Transportation Committee advanced SB 455, legislation designed to clarify definitions and consumer protections for electric bicycles and similar motorized devices.
Author Senator Blake Spear said the bill distinguishes true e‑bikes — limited to 20 mph under motor power — from higher‑speed devices that have the power and speeds of motorcycles and mopeds. SB 455 would create a regulated category called "low‑power mopeds," limited to 30 miles per hour, prohibited from sidewalks and bike lanes, and requiring a driver's license; unlike other mopeds, the bill would not require a license plate for that category. The bill would also clarify that devices meeting definitions of motorcycle, motor‑driven cycle or moped are not e‑bikes and would require improved labeling and customer notifications to reduce consumer confusion.
Mark Buksovich of Streets for All, sponsor of the bill, said the measure aims to preserve the benefits of e‑bikes — mode shift, greenhouse‑gas reduction and mobility — while addressing unlawful devices marketed as e‑bikes that exceed safe speed/power limits. He said better data collection (including vehicle class in collision reports) and clearer manufacturer notices would help enforcement and consumer protection.
PeopleForBikes, the trade association representing manufacturers and distributors, testified in opposition in its current form, urging consistent nationwide labeling and warning that retroactive notice obligations could improperly burden manufacturers and that prior 2024 legislation was not intended to render thousands of previously sold e‑bikes illegal.
The committee adopted amendments and advanced SB 455 to Appropriations. Supporters and industry representatives said they would continue to negotiate technical fixes, particularly around labeling and retroactivity, before the bill advances further.
