Bullock’s bipartisan legislation on e-bikes advances from Transportation Committee
Rep. Donna Bullock October 1, 2020 | 10:01 AM
PHILADELPHIA, Oct. 1 – State Rep. Donna Bullock, D-Phila., announced her legislation to update the state’s Vehicle Code regarding “pedalcycles with electric assist” (e-bike) has been advanced from the Transportation Committee.
Bullock said the legislation, House Bill 2646, would have the state code reflect industry standards being adopted across the country and clarify where e-bikes may be operated. Currently, the code has a very specific definition of e-bike that does not allow for the various classes of e-bikes currently being manufactured.
“This bipartisan effort will ensure Pennsylvania’s regulation reflects technological advancement. It will help establish safe rules for owners to operate e-bikes on our roads and offer clarity in how this mean of transport is categorized in our Vehicle Code,” Bullock said. “Let’s move our state forward and keep up with industry and states across the country.”
According to Bullock, who introduced the bill with Rep. Parke Wentling, R- Crawford/ Erie/Lawrence/Mercer, the legislation would define in statute the following classes:
- Class 1: the electric motor only provides assistance when the rider is pedaling and ceases to provide assistance once the e-bike reaches 20mph.
- Class 2: the electric motor can propel the e-bike regardless if the rider is pedaling and ceases to provide assistance once the e-bike reaches 20mph.
- Class 3: the electric motor only provides assistance when the rider is pedaling and ceases to provide assistance once the e-bike reaches 28mph.
The legislation would also allow all classes of e-bikes to be operated on roads, and provide the following with respect to paths:
- Class 1 and 2 may be used on any path that a bicycle is permitted, unless prohibited by local ordinance.
- Class 3 may be operated on paths adjacent to a highway or on paths permitted by a local ordinance.
“Pedalcycles with Electric Assist have the unmatched potential to dramatically improve mobility for people of all walks of life, especially older Pennsylvanians,” said Wentling. “As an experienced cyclist, I applaud members of the House Transportation Committee for voting to advance this much-needed legislation to empower citizens across the commonwealth to fully utilize these emerging modes of transportation for daily commuting purposes, outdoor recreational opportunities, exercise and the many associated health benefits.”
Full text of H.B. 2646, introduced in June, is available on the General Assembly’s website. It now moves to the full House for consideration.