New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Senate Bill S02386

Introduced
1/16/25  

Caption

Requires bicycles with electric assist and electric scooters be registered with the department of motor vehicles, inspected and have liability insurance; and have a license plate affixed to such bicycle with electric assist or electric scooter.

Summary

Bill S02386 mandates that bicycles with electric assist and electric scooters be registered with the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), undergo annual inspections, and carry liability insurance. The bill introduces new sections to the vehicle and traffic law, specifically requiring registration and inspection for these vehicles, which includes obtaining a distinctive number plate and ensuring that the battery is also inspected. The bill aims to enhance safety and accountability for users of electric bicycles and scooters by establishing clear regulations around their operation.

Impact

The bill will significantly alter the regulatory landscape for electric bicycles and scooters in New York State. By requiring registration, inspection, and liability insurance, the bill aims to ensure that users are held accountable for their vehicles, potentially reducing accidents and injuries associated with their use. This legislation will also create new responsibilities for the DMV and insurance providers, as they will need to implement the processes for registration and insurance coverage for these vehicles.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding Bill S02386 appears to be mixed based on discussions and the absence of recorded votes. Proponents argue that the bill will improve safety and accountability among users of electric bicycles and scooters, while opponents may express concerns about the additional regulatory burden and costs associated with registration and insurance requirements.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the potential financial impact on users who may need to pay for registration fees and insurance premiums. Some stakeholders, such as cycling advocates, may argue that these requirements could discourage the use of electric bicycles and scooters, while safety advocates may push for stricter regulations to prevent accidents and injuries. The balance between promoting alternative transportation and ensuring public safety is a key area of debate.

Companion Bills

NY A00350

Same As Requires bicycles with electric assist and electric scooters be registered with the department of motor vehicles, inspected and have liability insurance; and have a license plate affixed to such bicycle with electric assist or electric scooter.

Previously Filed As

NY S10015

Requires bicycles with electric assist and electric scooters to be registered with the department of motor vehicles and have a license plate affixed to such bicycle with electric assist or electric scooter.

NY A10230

Requires bicycles with electric assist and electric scooters to be registered with the department of motor vehicles and have a license plate affixed to such bicycle with electric assist or electric scooter.

NY A00350

Requires bicycles with electric assist and electric scooters be registered with the department of motor vehicles, inspected and have liability insurance; and have a license plate affixed to such bicycle with electric assist or electric scooter.

NY A00339

Requires bicycles with electric assist and electric scooters in a city with a population of one million or more be registered with the department of motor vehicles and have a license plate affixed to such bicycle with electric assist or electric scooter.

NY S02599

Requires bicycles with electric assist and electric scooters in a city with a population of one million or more be registered with the department of motor vehicles and have a license plate affixed to such bicycle with electric assist or electric scooter.

NY A06403

Requires license plates for certain bicycles with electric assist and electric scooters; requires a person be eighteen years of age to operate or purchase bicycles with electric assist and electric scooters.

NY S3156

Requires low-speed electric bicycles and low-speed electric scooters to be registered with MVC and to be insured.

NY A2093

Requires low-speed electric bicycles and low-speed electric scooters to be registered with MVC and to be insured.

NY A09201

Prohibits sellers of bicycles with electric assist, electric scooters, and motor-driven cycles from selling to persons less than sixteen years of age; requires valid proof of age at the point of purchase; establishes licensing requirements for bicycles with electric assist, electric scooters, and motor-driven cycles that can exceed twenty-eight miles per hour.

NY S09361

Requires operators of bicycles with electric assist, electric scooters, and motor-driven cycles to wear protective head gear regardless of age.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.