'Abby's Law' Proposes Statewide E-Scooter Regulations

DELAWARE COUNTY, PA — A piece of legislation named for a Delaware County girl who died in an e-scooter crash has officially been introduced.

Senate Bill 1008 aims to prevent tragedies such as that of 12-year-old Abigail Gillon, who died June 16 after she and 11-year-old Isabella Jones were hit by a vehicle as they rode an electric scooter in Aston Township on June 14.

The bill is called "Abby's Law" in honor of the late preteen.

"Abby’s loved ones have experienced an unimaginable loss," the bill's author, State Sen. Tim Kearney, said. "This is not just about policy. It is about protecting our children and creating commonsense measures that keep pace with changing technology."

E-scooters are not recognized under Pennsylvania’s Vehicle Code, leaving riders without any clear rules or standards.

If passed by the Pennsylvania legislature and signed by Gov. Josh Shapiro, Abby's Law would:

• Set an age minimum of 16 for e-scooter riders, and require helmets for 16- and 17-year-old riders
• Set a statewide speed limit of 20mph for e-scooters
• Prohibit more than one rider on an e-scooter
• Require e-scooters to follow bicycle traffic rules
• Provide for rider and driver education and awareness

"As a father, I believe keeping children safe should never be a partisan issue," Kearney (D-26th District) said. "Abby’s Law creates commonsense protections that I am confident will earn broad support on both sides of the aisle."

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Since announcing his intention in July to introduce the legislation, several serious e-scooter crashes have occurred in the region, underscoring the urgent need for safeguards. Haverford Township recently passed an ordinance requiring children under 16 to wear helmets when riding e-bikes.

"This devastating loss of Abby is one that our family, her friends and our community will continue to grieve for the remainder of our lives," Ron Kralle, Abby’s maternal uncle said. "Children, especially under the age of 16, are at risk for injuries or a fatality operating these electric vehicles every minute of every day on our streets because they are exactly that, children. Decisions determine fate. We respectfully ask our elected officials to support Abby’s Law and help us save another family’s worst nightmare from coming true."

Abby’s Law has officially been referred to the Senate Transportation Committee.

With the Senate set to resume on Monday, Kearney hopes his legislation will receive the bipartisan support needed to move forward and become law by the end of 2025.