Governor Murphy Signs Senate President Scutari’s E-Bike Safety Legislation

Posted on - 01/19/2026

Legislation Enacts Some of the Nation’s Toughest Regulations on E-Bikes

TRENTON – Governor Phil Murphy today signed into law S4834/A6235, Senate President Nick Scutari’s legislation to regulate electric bicycles in New Jersey following numerous dangerous crashes. The bill updates the regulation, licensing, classification, and training requirements for e-bikes.

The legislation expands the types of bicycles that are regulated as motorized bicycles to cover all forms of e-bikes and extends the classification of motorized bicycles to include pedal bicycles with fully operable pedals and an electric motor that can provide assistance when the rider is pedaling or to exclusively propel the bicycle.

The action comes in the wake of numerous accidents involving electric bikes, including two e-bike operators killed in separate accidents in Scotch Plains and Orange, in addition to multiple other crashes.

“It is clear that we are in an age of increasing e-bike use that requires us to take action and update regulations that help prevent tragedies from occurring,” said Governor Murphy. “Making our roads safer for all users has been a key priority for my Administration. I’d like to thank Senate President Scutari for taking the initiative to improve the safe use of e-bikes in New Jersey.”

This is the first update to e-bike laws in six years. The new requirements for owners and operators of electrical bicycles would include obtaining motorized bicycle licenses, registration, and insurance. The legislation would require an owner and operator to be at least 17 years old with a valid driver’s license or at least 15 years old with a motorized bicycle license.

In addition, the legislation provides that motor vehicles must use due caution when approaching e-bikes on the road – slowing down, leaving a safe distance, or changing lanes when passing.

S4834/A6235 was co-sponsored by Senate President Nick Scutari, Senator Paul Moriarty, Assemblyman James Kennedy, Assemblywoman Linda Carter, and Assemblyman Sterley Stanley.

“The dramatic increase in the use of e-bikes has created greater dangers for their operators, other motorists, and pedestrians,” said Senate President Nick Scutari. “They are faster, more powerful, and far more prevalent. Their popularity with young people, coupled with their inexperience as operators, puts them at greater risk. We are in a new era of e-bike use that requires updated safety standards to help prevent accidents, injuries, and fatalities. Requiring registration and licensing will improve their safe use and having them insured will protect those injured in accidents.”

“New, evolving forms of transportation need new, evolving regulations,” said Senator Paul Moriarty. “E-bikes are not the same as traditional bicycles and pose many more dangers on the road. It has become very clear that they should be regulated in different ways. This legislation will work to ensure that the necessary safeguards are in place to properly protect e-bike operators, as well as pedestrians, other drivers, and other cyclists.”

“Over the past several years, electric bikes have become an integral part of how people move around our state, and it’s important we have laws to reflect the changes to our roads,” said Assemblyman James Kennedy. “Simply put, if an electric bike can go as fast as a small motorcycle, we should treat it with the same level of care and attention. This legislation will keep our roadways safe for drivers, riders and pedestrians.”

“Too many people have fallen victim to the dangers that come with operating electric bikes, and it is our responsibility to make sure residents understand the danger inherent in their use,” said Assemblyman Sterley Stanley. “Setting basic rules, such as age, registration, and licensing requirements helps protect riders and the people around them. Our primary responsibility as legislators is to keep people safe, which is why we owe it to the people of New Jersey to do our part to ensure all vehicles operate in a manner free of unnecessary risk.”

“I am grateful to Governor Murphy and Senate President Scutari for advancing legislation that responds directly to the very real risks associated with electric-powered bicycles,” said Scotch Plains Mayor Josh Losardo. “This issue is not theoretical for us in Scotch Plains as last September’s tragic event underscored the urgent need for action. This law helps ensure our roads are safer for everyone using them, and adopting this legislation is an important step forward for public safety across New Jersey. I expect other states to follow New Jersey's lead.”

“This legislation is an important step forward for public safety and responsible innovation,” said Union County Commissioner Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “As e-bike use continues to grow, it is critical that our laws keep pace — providing clear standards that protect pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers alike. I was proud to stand with local leaders last year to elevate this issue, and I’m encouraged to see this bill signed with safety, accountability, and common sense at its core.”