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Pacific Grove council backs state e-bike registration bill with amendments
Summary
Staff recommended and the council approved a letter of support for AB 19-42 calling for statewide registration and license plates for certain e-bikes, while urging fee caps and visible classification markers; the motion carried unanimously (5–0, one absence).
The Pacific Grove City Council voted unanimously to authorize a letter of support for AB 19-42, a state bill that would create a registration and licensing framework for certain e-bikes, with recommended local amendments to protect affordability and aid enforcement.
Police staff framed the measure as a path to consistent statewide rules. "AB 19-42 seeks to establish a statewide registration and licensing framework for certain e bikes ... a registration system has the potential to support enforcement efforts," the police representative told council members, and circulated a draft letter with suggested amendments: apply the program to all e-bike classes, set a clear cap on registration fees, and require visible markings by classification.
Council members said the proposal would give local enforcement tools for pathways that traverse adjacent jurisdictions and state park land. Council member (speaker 3) said the lack of consistent rules across local, county and state park jurisdictions complicates enforcement. Others emphasized keeping registration costs affordable to preserve mobility for residents who rely on e-bikes.
The council directed staff to finalize the letter with the outlined amendments. Roll-call votes recorded "Aye" from Council members present; Mayor Smith was recorded absent.
