Major E-Bike Regulation Changes Proposed For PA

PENNSYLVANIA — A state lawmaker is proposing an overhaul in the law regulating how electronic bicycyles can operate on roads and sidewalks.

Rep. Jill Cooper, a Westmoreland County Republican, said she plans to seek a middle ground between the current law and those who want more stringent regulations regarding e-Bikes.

As of now, eBikes can be operated on roads and sidewalks if they do not exceed size, speed, weight and motor power limitations. Cooper contends that many of her constituents want eBikes to be licensed, insured and registered like motorcycles.

Cooper's impending legislation would establish a middle ground by giving local municipalities authority to establish ordinances for eBikes operating on roads and sidewalks and treat eBikes differently from traditional bikes.

"This flexible framework will give communities the freedom to address their unique needs while
simultaneously alleviating the need for a one-size-fits-all approach on eBikes," Cooper wrote in a memo to colleagues seeking support for the upcoming bill.

"Under the legislation, a municipality may establish eBike-specific ordinances, which may require eBike registration with a reasonable registration fee, limit or prohibit eBikes on roads or sidewalks and establish fines for ordinance violations. The legislation will also authorize municipalities to establish ordinances that impose fines specifically for the operation of eBikes that exceed the limitations in current law."

In addition, Cooper said many people have raised issues with eBikes speeding and being carelessly operated in complete disregard for the rules of the road and pedestrian safety. Her legislation would increase traffic violations committed on an e-Bike from $10 to $50, as well as creates a new fine of $100 if the careless operation of an eBike results in bodily injury. These two provisions would apply statewide and do not require municipal approval.