Resident John McCallahan seeks Tenino endorsement to join state e‑bike work group on SB 6110

At the March 10 meeting John McCallahan asked the council to endorse him as a municipal representative to the state work group established by Senate Bill 6110, which will study e‑bike classifications and safety rules.

McCallahan said the bill’s purpose is to create a working group through the Department of Licensing to standardize classes and safety expectations for electric bicycles. He described safety, insurance and classification gaps in current rules and told the council he has transportation and regional planning experience he would bring to the panel.

"If I can get this council ... to tell the committee that I should be on this council," McCallahan said, asking the body to signal support while he pursues appointment. He expressed concerns about overly punitive approaches used in other states and urged practical regulatory choices that allow safe, appropriate speeds and insurance frameworks.

Council discussion: Members asked whether the work group exists and what its membership rules are; McCallahan said there is no citizen slot currently but that municipal representation can serve. Multiple officials said they would endorse him individually and that formal council support could strengthen his application.

Next steps: Council indicated support for McCallahan and asked staff to place consideration of a formal endorsement on a subsequent agenda if necessary. McCallahan said he would return with any requested endorsements or letters.