Requires limited use motorcycles to have a red tag attached to the charging cord which states to unplug when not in use.
Summary
This bill amends a 2024 law that already required red warning tags on charging cords for micromobility devices and bicycles with electric assist. S02668 expands that requirement to include limited use motorcycles, also referred to in the bill as mopeds, by requiring a red tag on the charging cord that clearly states: “UNPLUG WHEN NOT IN USE.” The tag must be affixed near the end of the cord that plugs into the power source, and it must also include additional consumer safety information about safe use of the product and its charging equipment.
The bill also directs the Department of State to issue rules and regulations guiding what safety information must appear on the tag, and to post a model tag that manufacturers, distributors, sellers, and others can use. The measure is structured as a technical amendment to the existing 2024 law and is set to take effect on the same date and in the same manner as that earlier law.
Impact
The bill would amend the General Business Law by renumbering and revising the existing charging-cord tag provision, extending its scope from micromobility devices and electric-assist bicycles to limited use motorcycles under the Vehicle and Traffic Law. It would impose a labeling requirement on manufacturers, distributors, assemblers, reconditioners, retailers, and other sellers of covered products, while also giving the Department of State authority to standardize the safety language through regulation and a model tag. The practical effect is to add a consumer safety warning requirement for charging cords associated with limited use motorcycles and to align that requirement with the state’s broader battery and charging safety policy.
Sentiment
The available context suggests the bill is generally safety-oriented and likely noncontroversial in concept, since it builds on an existing law and uses similar warning-label language. No committee transcript or vote record is provided, so there is no direct evidence of opposition or debate in the materials supplied. The bill’s framing indicates a preventive consumer-protection approach focused on reducing charging-related fire or misuse risks.
Contention
The main point of potential contention is the scope of the labeling mandate and whether limited use motorcycles should be treated the same as micromobility devices and electric-assist bicycles for charging-cord warnings. Another possible issue is the compliance burden on manufacturers and retailers, who would need to ensure the required red tag and safety information are included and properly affixed. However, the bill text and available context do not show any recorded disagreement, and no specific opposing arguments or stakeholders are identified in the materials provided.
Definitions and registration requirements for motorized bicycles and motorcycles powered by electric motors modified, sellers required to have a dealer license, certain vehicles prohibited from using public roads, and money appropriated.
Prohibits sellers of bicycles with electric assist, electric scooters, and limited use motorcycles from selling to persons less than sixteen years of age; requires valid proof of age at the point of purchase; establishes penalties for violations of this requirement.