Rhode Island bill would allow certain electric bicycles on bike paths, require helmets for riders under 21

A bill approved by the Rhode Island House on Thursday would allow the use of certain electric bicycles on bike paths, in an effort to safeguard pedestrians and cyclists.

This legislation (2024-H 7713A) would update Rhode Island regulations of electric bicycles in four main ways.

First, it would define three classes of electric bicycle, consistent with national standards.

Second, it would allow Class 1 electric bicycles, which provide assistance only when the rider is pedaling and cease to provide assistance when the electric bicycle reaches 20 miles per hour, to use state bike paths.

Third, it would allow the Department of Environmental Management to set guidelines governing the use of electric bicycles at all properties it manages.

And finally, it would require Rhode Islanders under 21 to wear a helmet while riding an electric bicycle.
“As e-bikes have exploded in popularity, Rhode Island’s regulations have lagged behind,” said Boylan. “Modernizing our regulations will allow people to use e-bikes safely, getting cars off the road while simultaneously limiting the use of certain electric bicycles on our bike paths.”

The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management would also be empowered to set guidelines regarding the use of electric bicycles at properties it manages.

“It’s important that as e-bike usage grows, it growly safely,” said Boylan. “Adding the helmet requirement and limiting bike path usage to the slower Class 1 e-bikes will keep both riders and the pedestrians and other cyclists around them safe.”

The bill now heads to the Senate for consideration where Sen. Dawn Euer (D-Dist. 13, Newport, Jamestown) has introduced companion legislation (2024-S 2829).

Generative artificial intelligence (AI) assisted a What’sUpNewp journalist with the reporting included in this story.