Michigan bill would restrict kids on e-bikes

Driving the news: State Sen. Jim Runestad (R-White Lake) introduced legislation last week that would prohibit children under 14 from riding e-bikes on public roads, sidewalks or trails.

• Riders aged 14-17 would need to wear a helmet and have written parental permission or be supervised by a parent or guardian.
• Violations could result in fines or the e-bike being impounded.

The big picture: States and communities nationwide are scrambling to regulate a growing mix of electric two-wheelers amid safety concerns, particularly involving young riders.

Between the lines: The distinction between legal e-bikes and more powerful e-motos is central to the regulatory debate.

• Michigan's state trails coordinator previously told Axios that the "vast majority" of mobility devices causing confusion are unclassified e-bikes or e-motos.
• Michigan law limits e-bike motors to 750 watts; devices with more powerful motors aren't considered e-bikes.

Case in point: Two 13-year-old boys were critically injured Sept. 7 after the e-moto they were riding together was struck by a pickup while they crossed Telegraph Road in Bloomfield Township.

• Runestad's proposal wouldn't apply to the e-moto involved in that crash.

• Asked by Axios whether his proposal would cover e-motos, Runestad's office said those vehicles are "significantly different vehicles than what this bill seeks to address."

What they're saying: Runestad's office told Axios the senator was motivated by "too many media reports and personal accounts" about e-bike dangers.

• His office said parents may underestimate the risks of e-bikes and the ability of younger children to operate them safely.

What's next: The bill was referred to the Senate Transportation and Infrastructure Committee.