Lawmakers hear broad support for SB 6110 to define high‑powered 'e‑motos' and convene a study group

Committee staff described SB 6110 as a proposed substitute that maintains the existing 750‑watt threshold for e‑bikes while excluding vehicles capable of exceeding 20 mph solely on motor power and directing the Department of Licensing to convene a work group to recommend definitions, licensing, road rules and consumer disclosures by Dec. 15, 2027.

Sponsor Senator Shoemake said the bill is intended to distinguish true pedal‑assist e‑bicycles from throttle-driven devices that behave like motorcycles and pose safety risks on trails and in neighborhoods. "We're creating this definition of e‑moto," Shoemake said, describing vehicles that can go above 20 mph without pedaling and noting the need for possible age limits, education and local enforcement tools.

Students and local officials provided extensive testimony in favor. Several high‑school witnesses said injuries and improper classification of high‑powered devices are increasing; one student described a Surron model that lacks pedals, exceeds wattage limits and can reach 50 mph. Cities and trail groups urged an immediate statutory definition to avoid a patchwork of local rules and to allow noncriminal civil enforcement for juveniles.

Supporters including Eastrail Partners, Washington Bikes, Association of Washington Cities, the Washington Recreation and Park Association and mountain-biking groups said the work group should include parks and natural-resources agencies to ensure consistent trail and urban‑path rules. The committee did not take a vote.