New state e-bike rules take effect May 6; council aims for education-first enforcement and possible park code updates

City staff briefed the council on new state traffic-code changes affecting electric bicycles, scooters and e-motorcycles and outlined an initial enforcement approach emphasizing education.

Sean, a staff representative associated with the sheriff's office, said, "I believe it was House Bill 381 ... They go into effect tomorrow, May 6," and summarized core provisions: CPSC-approved helmets are required for e-bike and e-scooter riders age 21 and over; DOT-approved helmets apply to e-motorcycles; devices with motors that exceed 750 watts or that can travel over 20 mph without pedaling fall into a classification that requires a motorcycle endorsement and insurance.

On age limits, Sean said anyone under 8 may not ride an e-device on public roads, and those under 16 may not operate e-motorcycles or high-powered devices on public roads. Sean said the city's initial enforcement posture will favor public education and warnings for the first week or two before issuing citations, adding officers may escalate enforcement for repeat offenders or cases involving juveniles.

Councilmembers discussed likely hot spots (Romer Park and nearby streets), the need to clarify insurance and registration for higher‑powered devices, and the prospect of drafting park-specific code language to prevent turf damage and unsafe behavior. Staff committed to post an infographic and explanatory text on the city's website and social media.

No immediate ordinance change was adopted; staff were asked to return with any recommended code amendments.