Bill > HB715

This bill defines and comprehensively regulates personal electric vehicles (PEVs) in New Hampshire, establishing new legal classifications and safety requirements. The legislation defines PEVs as motor-driven vehicles exceeding 1.0 horsepower used for recreation or transportation, including devices like electric unicycles, scooters, skateboards, hoverboards, and Segways. The bill mandates that individuals over 16 years old without a driver's license must complete an online safety course developed by the Department of Motor Vehicles before operating a PEV, and must carry a certificate of completion. The legislation also establishes speed limits for PEVs, restricting them to 5 miles per hour on sidewalks and walkways, and 18 miles per hour on public trails, with specific requirements for reflective clothing during low-light conditions. Retail dealers must inform customers about device classification and legal usage areas, and are prohibited from modifying speed limiters on e-bikes. The bill exempts PEVs from the standard $100 electric vehicle registration surcharge and treats electric unicycles similarly to electric bicycles. Violations of the new regulations can result in fines, with the law set to take effect 60 days after passage.