NHRTC and our fiscal sponsor BWA-NH worked with Rep Linda Gould to file HB 715-FN: “This bill defines and regulates personal electric vehicles.”
We all know that technology advances faster than legislation can keep up. Likewise improper use of some devices can and have resulted in injuries to the users and innocent by-standers. A key issue is “e-bikes on rail trails” – except usually they are not “e-bikes.” The NH law allows Class 1 & 2 “true e-bikes” having a maximum powered speed of 20 MPH on rail trails and they are classified as “bicycles” – not “motor vehicles.” For several years rail trail users have encountered fast and powerful “electric motorcycles with pedals” that are mistakenly called “e-bikes.” No pedaling required – just hit the throttle to attain 40-50 MPH all without any user training, safety certificate, operator licensing, registration, or insurance. And yes, these devices are being used on public roads, greenways, and trails. Electric unicycles (EUCs) are also showing up in greater numbers with similar concerns. The term “Personal Electric Vehicles” (PEVs) covers the above plus skateboards, scooters, OneWheels, and hoverboards.
HB 715 is our second attempt to legally identify these “Out-of-Class Electric Vehicles” (OCEVs) for what they are so as they are not considered “e-bikes.” A plan for education, safety certificates (much like the NH Fish and Game OHRV and snowmobile program) and speed limits based on the environment should make rail trails safer and more enjoyable for everyone. Road users and law enforcement officers currently don’t know what to call these OCEVs so they don’t take any action. The goal is to reasonably and safely regulate these devices much like what we have in place for motor vehicle operators.
Bottom line, some common sense, courtesy, and etiquette can go a long way – but it takes education and regulations to make it happen. Please read the details in HB 715 and support passage when House Transportation Committee holds its hearing.