Bill > S2373

This bill updates Massachusetts law regarding electric bicycles, specifically focusing on defining and regulating Class 3 electric bicycles, which are bicycles with a motor that provides pedal assistance up to 28 miles per hour. The bill adds a formal definition for Class 3 electric bicycles and expands the legal definition of "electric bicycle" to include bicycles or tricycles with fully operable pedals and an electric motor of 750 watts or less. Importantly, the bill modifies regulations about electric bicycle usage on natural surface trails, giving municipalities, local authorities, and state agencies the ability to adopt ordinances or regulations prohibiting or regulating electric bicycle operation on such trails after holding a public hearing. The bill also removes previous language that categorically prohibited electric bicycles on natural surface trails and prohibited them from being ridden on sidewalks, instead providing more local discretion in managing electric bicycle use. These changes reflect a more nuanced approach to regulating emerging electric bicycle technologies, recognizing the growing popularity of these vehicles while still allowing local jurisdictions to manage their use appropriately.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S2373