Pasco staff: state e‑bike rule change covers most cases; council presses for helmets and local enforcement

Deputy City Manager Segnell briefed the council that Washington state recently tightened the definition of electric‑assisted bicycles, and that the city’s existing code and referenced state statutes already provide enforcement tools. “The short answer is that we already have it covered, within our codes,” Segnell said, explaining that bikes that can exceed 20 miles per hour on motor power alone are now classified as motor vehicles under state law and are no longer treated as e‑bikes.

Council members pushed for clearer local measures. One council member said a dedicated municipal code chapter should define classes of e‑bikes, mini‑bikes and modified bikes and proposed a public awareness campaign tied to police and school outreach. Another council member recommended requiring helmets for riders, including adults in some circumstances, and suggested progressive enforcement steps: education, civil citations and, when authorized by law, impoundment for repeat offenses.

Police staff described enforcement realities: park and trail enforcement depends on available staff presence, signage and the ability to call dispatch when violations are identified. “Enforcement is key to getting compliance,” a police representative said, noting that signage and targeted enforcement are being considered but that manpower is limited.

Council members raised nighttime safety requirements (lights/reflectors), prohibiting modified bikes that exceed statutory power thresholds, and emphasized coordination with schools for student education. Staff said they will continue education efforts, coordinate with the school district, monitor enforcement experience and return to council if code amendments become necessary.