New York City Council Proposes 17 Bills to Regulate E-Bikes

The New York City Council introduced a legislative package of 17 bills on August 4, 2026, designed to reduce crashes involving e-bikes, e-scooters, and other micromobility devices. The initiative follows a surge in injuries and fatal accidents, including the death of 17-year-old Gabriel Nacato, who crashed an illegal high-speed e-bike in Lower Manhattan.

Key proposals include banning the sale of Class 3 e-bikes that can exceed 20 mph and requiring third-party delivery apps to obtain business licenses from the Department of Consumer and Worker Protection. Under the new measures, these apps would be mandated to share driver data and provide safety equipment. While some council members suggested a registration system, the current package excludes local registration, with members like Gale Brewer noting that such criteria are typically handled by the state Department of Motor Vehicles.

Mayor Zohran Mamdani stated he is reviewing the specifics of the proposals, emphasizing the need to prevent consumers from purchasing illegal devices online. The council has scheduled a public oversight hearing for September 30 to review the legislation and the enforcement of existing laws. Parallel efforts to regulate e-bike modifications and rider training are also underway in Los Angeles.