US Cities and States Propose Strict E-Bike Regulations

Legislators and municipal governments across the United States are introducing strict regulations for electric bikes following a surge in accidents and fatalities involving minors. In Michigan, Jim Runestad introduced Senate Bill 1156 to ban children under 14 from operating e-bikes on public roads and trails, while requiring teens aged 14 to 17 to wear helmets and obtain parental permission.

Simultaneously, the Michigan House of Representatives is reviewing House Bill 6166. This proposal would require riders under 18 to be at least 15 years old and obtain a $7.50 restricted license from the Secretary of State to operate high-speed Class 2 and Class 3 e-bikes. Penalties for violations could range from civil infractions to misdemeanors punishable by up to one year in prison for repeat offenders.

Local governments are implementing similar measures. The Riverside City Council is considering a total ban on e-conveyances in parks and on sidewalks, alongside mandatory helmets for minors. This follows data showing countywide accidents rose from 224 in 2023 to 958 in 2025. In Kansas City, Missouri, new rules now cap sidewalk speeds at 15 mph and require riders of bikes capable of 28 mph to be at least 16 years old. The city is currently conducting a 120-day education period before full enforcement begins in late November.