H.E.A. 1236, P.L. 206
Effective: July 1, 2019
Defines the term “electric bicycle” as a bicycle equipped with: (1) operable pedals; and (2) an electric motor with a power output not greater than 750 watts. Provides that an electric bicycle is not a motor vehicle. Provides that the operator of an electric bicycle is: (1) subject to all of the duties; and (2) entitled to all of the rights and privileges; of a bicycle operator. Provides that an electric bicycle shall be regulated as a bicycle. Provides certain exceptions. Exempts the operator of an electric bicycle from motor vehicle statutes concerning: (1) driver’s licenses; and (2) financial responsibility. Exempts electric bicycles from motor vehicle statutes concerning: (1) certificates of title; (2) registration; and (3) off-road vehicles. Requires manufacturers and distributors of electric bicycles to affix and prominently display a label with the following information on each electric bicycle: (1) The class level of the electric bicycle. (2) The top assisted speed of the electric bicycle. (3) The total power output of the electric bicycle’s electric motor. Requires all electric bicycles to comply with certain requirements adopted by the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission. Requires all electric bicycles to be equipped with an electric motor that disengages or ceases to function when the operator: (1) stops pedaling; or (2) applies brakes. Specifies where electric bicycles may be operated. Allows a local authority or state agency with jurisdiction over a trail, bicycle path, or multipurpose path to regulate the use of electric bicycles on a trail, bicycle path, or multipurpose path subject to the local authority’s or state agency’s jurisdiction. Prohibits a person less than 15 years of age from operating certain electric bicycles. Allows a person less than 15 years of age to ride as a passenger on certain electric bicycles. Requires a properly fitted and fastened helmet capable of meeting certain safety standards to be worn by certain individuals when operating or riding on certain electric bicycles. Requires the operator of a motor vehicle to provide at least 3 feet of clearance when passing or overtaking an electric bicycle in certain instances.
Read the bill at: http://iga.in.gov/legislative/2019/bills/house/1236