Legislation aimed at protecting young children from accidents caused by electric bikes was introduced in the Senate this week.
Key Points:
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- Senate 1156 was introduced by Senator Jim Runestad (R-White Lake).
- The proposal bans children under 14 from riding an e-bike on a public sidewalk, road, or trail.
- Children above the age of 14 and under the age of 18 would need written permission from a parent or guardian and must wear a safety helmet while riding.
- The bill also contains financial penalties for those who violate the safety guidelines.
- The legislation was referred to the Senate Transportation and Infrastructure Committee.
“Due to the fast speeds e-bikes are capable of reaching, riders must possess the required mental and physical capabilities to ride safely — skills that are often underdeveloped in young children,” Senator Runestad said. “This is just a simple safety check regarding the public use of these bikes.”
