Bill > H3758

This bill updates Massachusetts law regarding electric bicycles, specifically adding a definition for "Class 3 electric bicycle" as a bicycle with a motor that assists pedaling and stops providing assistance at 28 miles per hour. The bill also expands the legal definition of "electric bicycle" to include bicycles and tricycles with fully operable pedals and an electric motor of 750 watts or less that meets Class 1, 2, or 3 standards. Importantly, the legislation gives municipalities, local authorities, and state agencies the power to regulate electric bicycle use on natural surface trails through public hearings, allowing them to prohibit or set speed limits for electric bicycles on such trails. The bill removes previous restrictions that completely banned electric bicycles on natural surface trails and on sidewalks, instead providing local jurisdictions more flexibility in managing electric bicycle access. This change reflects a growing recognition of electric bicycles as a legitimate form of transportation and recreational vehicle, while still preserving local control over their use in specific contexts.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H3758