State Legislators Propose New E-Bike Rules for Minors

LANSING, Mich. — Two bills introduced in the Michigan Legislature would impose new licensing, helmet, and age requirements on minors who ride electric bikes and other micromobility devices across the state.

The measures come amid growing concern in Southeast Michigan communities after a series of incidents involving teenagers on e-bikes.

House Bill 6166: Licensing and Helmet Requirements

Michigan House Bill 6166 was introduced by State Representatives Phil Skaggs, Carrie Rheingans, and Noah Arbit. The bill would make broader changes to e-bike and e-motorcycle laws in the state.

Under the proposal, teens aged 18 and under would need a special restricted license to operate a Class 2 or Class 3 e-bike or a micromobility device with more than 500 watts of power or a top speed above 20 mph. Special restricted licenses could be issued starting at age 15, but only after the Secretary of State determines the rider can safely operate the device.

The bill also mandates helmet use. Riders under 19 operating a micromobility device on a public thoroughfare would be required to wear a helmet, and anyone under 18 operating or riding as a passenger on a Class 2 e-bike would also need to wear one.

Additional provisions in the bill include:

  • Micromobility devices limited to 20 mph on public roads.
  • Municipalities would gain the authority to regulate micromobility devices on roads, sidewalks, and crosswalks, and could prohibit them in designated areas.
  • Devices operating at night would require a white front light and rear reflector.
  • The definition of a moped would be updated to a vehicle with three or fewer wheels, a seat, and a maximum capability of 30 mph, while e-bikes would remain excluded from that category.

Senate Bill 1156: Age Restrictions and Penalties

Michigan Senate Bill 1156, introduced by State Senator Jim Runestad on Sept. 10, takes a different approach by establishing new age restrictions and penalties for e-bike riders.

Under the Senate bill:

  • Children younger than 14 would be prohibited from operating any electric bicycle on a public road, sidewalk, or trail.
  • Riders older than 14 but younger than 18 could use an e-bike on public roads, sidewalks, or trails only if wearing a helmet and having written permission from a parent or guardian, or being supervised by one.
  • Adults who knowingly allow a minor to ride in violation of the restrictions could face a civil fine of up to $250.
  • A first violation would result in a warning and a mandatory safety education class. A second or subsequent violation could bring a fine of up to $100 and possible impoundment of the e-bike.

The bill would retain existing requirements for manufacturers to label e-bikes with their classification, top speed, and wattage. A modified device exceeding 750 watts would no longer qualify as an e-bike. If signed into law, the changes would take effect 90 days after enactment.

Local Restrictions Precede State Action

The state-level proposals follow a wave of municipal action across Southeast Michigan.

On Sept. 14, Bloomfield Township banned electric bikes and electric scooters on sidewalks and township property for a six-month period. The township board enacted the moratorium after a crash on Telegraph Road involving two 13-year-olds struck while riding e-bikes. The temporary rule gives the council time to establish a more permanent ordinance governing e-bike use in the community. Bikes and scooters found being ridden in violation would be confiscated and returned to parents.

In August, the Berkley City Council voted to restrict e-bike use, keeping them off sidewalks and parks. City leaders described the measure as a proactive step after hearing about incidents elsewhere involving children on fast-moving e-vehicles. The Berkley ordinance restricts e-bikes to designated bike lanes in the downtown area and removes permission to ride in parks and on all sidewalks.

What Happens Next

Both bills now move to committee in their respective chambers. Lawmakers from both parties will weigh in as the proposals head through the legislative process, with the final outcome still uncertain.