SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — A plan heading to Gov. JB Pritzker's desk could improve public safety by creating regulations for electric bikes, scooters and other modern vehicles. This was a top priority for the Secretary of State's office, as Illinois has already seen several deaths involving e-bikes.
Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias said e-bikes and other devices have become faster, heavier and more powerful, but Illinois laws have not changed to address them.
"I'm not one of those old guys that complains about things, but I saw two people that were literally on motorcycles on the bike path, which is dangerous for everyone and not what our bike paths were intended for," Giannoulias said Thursday.
His plan could classify the vehicles as electric micromobility devices and set speed limits that are already in place across most of the country. This bill treats high-powered e-bikes and e-motos like other large vehicles by requiring registration, insurance and a valid driver's license.
"This was not easy," said Sen. Ram Villivalam (D-Chicago). "This was legislation that was heavily discussed and debated, making sure that we took into account perspectives of law enforcement and also those that use these devices every day through the Active Transportation Alliance, and everyone in between."
E-scooters, electric skateboards and electric unicycles will be banned from operating over 28 miles per hour on roads, bike lanes, bike paths and sidewalks.
The plan also states that riders of any micromobility device must be at least 16 years old. This comes as Illinois has seen several high-profile deaths involving these bikes, and pediatric doctors consistently see kids arrive at hospitals with catastrophic injuries.
"I heard the same words uttered by both the children and the adults who were in the room being treated," said Dr. Kristine Cieslak from Lurie Children's Hospital Chicago. "I lost control, it happened so fast, I had no idea this could happen and I'm scared to ride again."
Senate Bill 3484 gained strong bipartisan support in both chambers. The measure received an 84-16 vote in the House and a 48-7 vote in the Senate.
The new regulations will take effect on Jan. 1 if Pritzker signs the bill into law.
"I had a constituent whose husband was an employee of ISU and lost his life being hit by a motorized bike," said Rep. Regan Deering (R-Decatur). "So, I appreciate the insurance policy also that will be going on these, so that in the future, families will be able to maybe receive some compensation."
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