SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — Gov. JB Pritzker signed the final bill left on his desk from the 2026 session Wednesday and the legislation will create new regulations for electric bikes and scooters. 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. However, Illinois laws have not changed to address them.

"This law brings accountability and common-sense safety standards to our roads while helping prevent serious injuries and ensuring riders, parents and communities understand how to safely share the road," Giannoulias said.

The law classifies high-speed vehicles as electric micromobility devices and sets speed limits already in place across most of the country. It also treats high-powered e-bikes and e-motos like other large vehicles by requiring registration, insurance and a valid driver's license.

"Transportation technology will continue to evolve, and Illinois needs a framework that protects people without standing in the way of innovations," said Sen. Ram Villivalam (D-Chicago). "This legislation replaces a patchwork of local approaches with statewide standards, giving municipalities and law enforcement a more consistent system to work with."

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 law also states riders must be at least 16 years old, a suggestion from doctors who 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." 

The measure gained strong bipartisan support in both chambers and takes effect Jan. 1. 

"Parents and young riders deserve to know what they are operating and what responsibilities come with it," said Rep. Barbara Hernandez (D-Aurora). "This law provides that clarity while establishing commonsense standards designed to prevent dangerous situations." 

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