|
| FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE |
| State Rep. Adam Ravenstahl
|
|
Ravenstahl bill aims to clarify state law on electric bicycles
HARRISBURG, Feb. 14 – State Rep. Adam Ravenstahl, D-Allegheny, has introduced legislation (H.B. 2216) that would prevent owners of bicycles powered by a combination of its rider and an electric helper motor from being ticketed for not having a license plate.
"The owners of these bicycles are in a Catch-22," Ravenstahl said. "Some have received tickets because they do not have a license plate, but state law prevents them from getting one because they do not have vehicle identification numbers. My legislation would rectify this problem."
Ravenstahl's legislation would clarify the law to recognize traditional bicycles and those with electric helper motors as bicycles, which do not need a license plate. Florida has enacted similar legislation.
Ravenstahl introduced the legislation after discussing the issue with Bill Stalter, owner of Evirobikes in Pittsburgh.
"Representative Ravenstahl's legislation would allow Pennsylvania citizens to use electric-powered vehicles for safe, environmentally friendly transportation," Stalter said. "This legislation also would provide law enforcement officers with easy to understand guidelines to recognize electric bikes."
"I'm pleased that Mr. Stalter brought this situation to my attention so the Legislature can address the problem," Ravenstahl said.
###