Borrello Introduces E-Bike Bills

ALBANY – State Sen. George Borrello has introduced two bills (S.8909 and S.8910) to better govern the use of e-bikes and other electric personal mobility devices.

“With the rapid rise of e-bikes and other types of electric mobility devices, we’ve seen a rise in dangerous, illegal, and unregulated use,” Borrello said. “Communities across our state are dealing with e�’bikes that are being operated where they are not permitted, as well as devices that have been modified to travel at unsafe speeds. This package gives law enforcement the tools they need to protect the public and ensure these devices are used responsibly.”

Borrello said New York law clearly distinguishes among three classes of e-bikes, each defined by how the motor engages and the maximum assisted speed:

• Class 1 – Pedal assist only, up to 20 mph

• Class 2 – Throttle-assisted (can operate without pedaling), up to 20 mph

• Class 3 – Pedal assist only, up to 25-28 mph (restricted to New York City)

Senate Bill 8909 specifically addresses class 3 e-bikes, authorizing police officers and peace officers to seize class 3 e�’bikes being operated in any community outside New York City, which is currently the only location in the state where this class of e-bike can be operated lawfully.

By clarifying enforcement authority, the bill closes a critical gap that has limited officers’ ability to address illegal operation. It also establishes a schedule of graduated fines up to $750 to ensure that the consequences of unlawful use outweigh any incentive to ignore the law.

“The intent of this legislation is not to prohibit the lawful use of e-bikes, but to deter the illegal use of class 3

e-bikes outside of New York City,” Borrello said. “By providing clear enforcement authority and consistent penalties, this measure will improve public safety, support law enforcement, and promote safer streets throughout New York state.”

Senate Bill 8910 strengthens penalties for the reckless operation of electric mobility devices as well as for unauthorized modifications that make these devices more dangerous. The legislation formally defines “electric skateboard” in statute and closes longstanding gaps in New York’s Vehicle and Traffic Law that have limited enforcement and created confusion around where and how these devices may be used.

The bill defines “reckless operation,” as operating on sidewalks in a manner that endangers pedestrians, disregarding traffic control devices such as stop signs and traffic signals, traveling against the flow of traffic, or riding at excessive speeds in pedestrian-heavy or school zones.

The measure establishes the penalty structure for reckless operation violations as follows:

– First offense: A fine of up to $250 and mandatory completion of a safety education course

– Second offense: A fine of up to $500 and potential temporary confiscation of the device for up to 30 days

– Third offense: A fine of up to $1,000, permanent confiscation of the device, and potential misdemeanor charges if the reckless operation results in injury or property damage.

“Electric mobility devices have become a common part of daily travel, but our laws haven’t kept pace with the rapid growth of this technology,” Borrello said. “By clarifying definitions and strengthening penalties, this legislation gives law enforcement the tools they need to address reckless operation and protect pedestrians, motorists, and riders.”