New California bill to require license plates for electric bikes

5 days ago

A new California bill, AB 1942, proposes requiring registration and license plates for Class 2 and Class 3 e-bikes.
Current law treats e-bikes like bicycles, with no registration, insurance, or plates, making them accessible alternatives to cars.
The bill targets over 90% of road-legal e-bikes in California, requiring DMV registration, plates, and proof of ownership.
Violations would be punishable by fines, and an Electric Bicycle Registration Fund would be created to manage fees.
Supporters argue the bill enhances accountability and public safety amid concerns over reckless riding.
Critics highlight the bill's misunderstanding of e-bike classifications, as it inaccurately targets legal e-bikes, not high-speed illegal ones.
The bill could deter e-bike adoption by adding bureaucratic hurdles, potentially keeping people in cars instead.
Enforcement concerns arise, as the bill may not address illegal e-bikes but burden law-abiding riders with new regulations.
California's leadership in e-bike policy may shift, redefining e-bikes as closer to motor vehicles under the law.

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