Bill > HB486

This bill aims to address safety concerns surrounding electric bicycles by introducing two primary measures. First, the bill prohibits the removal of manufacturer- or factory-installed speed limiting devices from electric bicycles, defining an electric bicycle as a two- or three-wheeled cycle with pedals and an electric motor under 750 watts, and making it illegal to both remove such a device and operate an electric bicycle from which such a device has been removed. Second, the bill requires the Department of Transportation to develop a comprehensive traffic safety education program and public awareness campaign to educate the public about electric bicycle safety, rules of the road, and relevant laws, with the department mandated to provide safety information and penalty details during electric bicycle registration. The bill's motivation stems from a significant increase in electric bicycle usage (5,300 registered in March 2023) and a record high of nine bicyclist fatalities in December 2023, with the legislature expressing concerns about potential risks to both cyclists and pedestrians. The bill also includes an appropriation of funds for implementing the education and awareness program, with the goal of promoting safer electric bicycle operation and reducing accident risks.

Justice, Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=486&year=2026