US States and Cities Implement New E-Bike Regulations
Lawmakers in Ohio and Illinois and officials in Carroll are introducing or enacting new safety regulations for e-bikes and e-scooters to standardize micromobility rules.
Government officials across the United States are moving to regulate e-bikes and e-scooters to address safety concerns and inconsistent local rules. In Ohio, State Senator Bill DeMora and State Representative Eric Synenberg have proposed legislation to replace a patchwork of local ordinances with uniform state standards. Their proposal includes mandatory helmet use, a ban on operators under age 14, and speed limits of 10 mph on shared-use paths and 5 mph on sidewalks. Class 3 e-bikes would require a registration fee and a valid driver's license or permit.
Similar state-level action occurred in Illinois, where Governor JB Pritzker signed a law in August that takes effect January 1, 2027. The Illinois law prohibits e-bikes and e-scooters on sidewalks statewide and requires riders to be at least 16 years old. High-powered e-bikes exceeding 28 mph will now require insurance, registration, a title, and a driver's license.
At the municipal level, the Carroll City Council unanimously passed an ordinance on October 12, 2026, integrating micromobility users into the city's bicycle code. The rules prohibit double riding and ban sidewalk use within a specific downtown zone. Police Chief Brad Burke described the measure as a first step that may be adjusted following the next state legislative session.
