Vainieri Huttle, Mukherji & Holley Bill to Allow Electric Bicycles on NJ Roadways Clears Assembly

(TRENTON) – The full Assembly approved legislation sponsored by Assembly Democrats Valerie Vainieri Huttle, Raj Mukherji and Jamel Holley to permit operation of low-speed electric bicycles on New Jersey roads.

E-bikes are defined as a “motorized bicycles,” and require registration, licensing, and insurance requirements that apply to motor vehicles under federal law. The New Jersey’s Department of Motor Vehicles, however, does not currently recognize e-bikes as vehicles with these requirements due the lack of a system in place to supply registration and licensing.

“Electric bicycles are growing in popularity,” said Vainieri Huttle (D-Bergen). “Requiring less effort than a pedal bicycle, these bikes are preferred more and more by residents and should be provided for under state law.  E-bikes are great for riders with mobility concerns, bicycle delivery workers and those who are environmentally conscious and looking for an alternative mode of transportation.”

Under the bill (A-1810), low-speed electric bicycles may be operated on the streets, highways, sidewalks, and bicycle paths. An operator of a low-speed electric bicycle is not required to register the bicycle, furnish proof of insurance, or have a driver’s license.

“Permitting the use of low-speed electric bikes supports our efforts to protect the environment by reducing our greenhouse gas emissions,” said Mukherji (D-Hudson). “By bringing our motor vehicle laws into the 21^st century, we will enable the rollout of e-bikes in Jersey City’s bike share program and expand the transportation options available to New Jerseyans.”

The bill defines a low-speed electric bicycle as a two or three-wheeled vehicle with fully operable pedals and an electric motor of less than 750 watts, whose maximum speed on a paved level surface, when powered solely by a motor while operated by a person weighing 170 pounds, is less than 20 miles per hour.

“We can make room for all vehicles can share the road with the proper guidelines in place,” said Holley (D-Union). “For the residents who must use electric scooters or those who borrow an electric bike from a bike share, regulations will provide for their safety on New Jersey.”

The bill was voted 76-0 out of the Assembly.