Fwd: NBDA Advocacy & Legislative Watch: E-Bikes, E-Motos & Battery Safety Update
Jim Baross
From: Clinton Sandusky <clint.s...@gmail.com>
Date: Tue, Jun 2, 2026, 9:56 AM
Subject: Fwd: NBDA Advocacy & Legislative Watch: E-Bikes, E-Motos & Battery Safety Update
To ...
From: National Bicycle Dealers Association <hea...@nbda.com>
Date: Mon, Jun 1, 2026 at 4:52 AM
Subject: NBDA Advocacy & Legislative Watch: E-Bikes, E-Motos & Battery Safety Update
To: <clint.s...@gmail.com>
Hello NBDA Members,
The legislative landscape surrounding e-bikes, e-motos, and lithium-ion batteries continues to evolve rapidly across the United States. Over the past several years, lawmakers have largely embraced e-bikes as a mobility, recreation, and transportation solution. However, the rapid growth of higher-powered electric motorcycles marketed as e-bikes, combined with concerns surrounding lithium-ion battery fires, has led to increased regulatory attention at the state and federal levels.
The NBDA continues to monitor these developments to ensure Speciality Bicycle Retailers have a voice in shaping legislation that impacts our industry.
Below are the key developments from the past week.
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🔴 E-BIKE VS. E-MOTO LEGISLATION
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A growing number of lawmakers are attempting to address concerns surrounding high-powered electric motorcycles, often referred to as "e-motos," that are being operated in bike lanes, on trails, and in areas traditionally intended for bicycles.
For the bicycle industry, the challenge is ensuring that legislation properly distinguishes between legal Class 1, 2, and 3 e-bikes and motor vehicles that exceed established e-bike definitions.
ILLINOIS
SB 3336 – Low-Speed Electric Bicycle & Micromobility Safety Act
Illinois lawmakers recently advanced SB 3336, one of the most comprehensive micromobility bills currently under consideration in the country.
The bill would:
• Establish statewide operating standards for low-speed electric bicycles, scooters, and other micromobility devices.
• Create minimum rider age requirements.
• Clarify where certain devices may operate, including roadways, bike lanes, and sidewalks.
• Establish additional requirements for higher-speed electric vehicles that exceed traditional e-bike classifications.
• Authorize penalties and enforcement mechanisms for non-compliant vehicles and operators.
Why lawmakers introduced it:
State officials have cited increasing reports of unsafe operation of high-powered electric devices, inconsistent local regulations, and confusion among consumers regarding vehicle classifications.
Potential retailer impact:
If enacted, retailers may need to provide more detailed education regarding vehicle classifications and legal operating requirements. The bill could also influence how certain products are marketed and sold within the state.
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CALIFORNIA
SB 1167 – Vehicles: Electric Bicycles
California continues to be one of the most influential states in shaping e-bike policy nationwide.
SB 1167 seeks to address concerns that electric motorcycles and other high-powered vehicles are increasingly being marketed as e-bikes despite exceeding California's established three-class e-bike framework.
The bill would:
• Reinforce California's existing e-bike definitions.
• Prohibit manufacturers and retailers from marketing non-compliant motor vehicles as e-bikes.
• Clarify enforcement authority.
• Improve consumer transparency regarding vehicle classification.
Why it matters:
California's three-class e-bike system has become the model used throughout much of the United States. Industry stakeholders broadly support efforts to preserve those classifications while ensuring that higher-powered vehicles are regulated appropriately.
Potential retailer impact:
This bill could influence labeling, advertising, and product representation requirements while helping preserve bicycle access on trails and bicycle infrastructure.
AB 1942 – Electric Bicycle Registration Proposal
A separate proposal, AB 1942, would establish registration and license plate requirements for certain electric bicycles.
Supporters argue the measure would improve accountability and enforcement.
Opponents, including many bicycle advocates, express concern that registration requirements could create barriers to adoption, increase consumer costs, and discourage ridership.
Potential retailer impact:
Registration requirements could add complexity to the sales process and potentially impact consumer demand.
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TEXAS
Austin city officials continue evaluating local regulations governing electric dirt bikes and e-motos, including enforcement procedures and operational restrictions.
Potential proposals include:
• Restrictions on where e-motos may operate.
• Enhanced enforcement authority.
• Rider safety requirements.
• Clarification of vehicle classifications.
Potential retailer impact:
Cities are increasingly creating local regulations before state legislatures act, creating additional compliance considerations for retailers.
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NEW YORK
S9402 – Bicycle with Electric Assist Safety Course Act
New York lawmakers continue exploring additional safety measures for e-bike riders.
S9402 would:
• Require individuals purchasing or operating an e-bike to complete a safety education program.
• Establish a bicycle-with-electric-assist safety certificate.
• Require operators to possess identification while riding.
• Expand rider education requirements.
Why lawmakers introduced it:
The bill follows ongoing concerns regarding rider behavior, urban traffic conflicts, and increased e-bike usage throughout New York City and surrounding communities.
Potential retailer impact:
Retailers could become important partners in rider education efforts and may eventually need to provide information regarding training or certification requirements at the point of sale.
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NEW JERSEY
Implementation of New Jersey's recently enacted e-bike legislation continues to be monitored closely by industry stakeholders.
The law created registration requirements and expanded regulation of certain electric bicycles and motorized devices.
Why it matters:
Many industry observers are watching New Jersey as a test case for how increased regulation affects adoption rates, consumer behavior, and retailer operations.
Potential retailer impact:
Retailers should monitor implementation closely as future amendments or clarifications may be considered.
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⚡ LITHIUM-ION BATTERY SAFETY WATCH
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Battery safety remains one of the fastest-moving areas of bicycle-related legislation.
Following several highly publicized battery fire incidents, particularly involving uncertified batteries and charging systems, lawmakers are increasingly focusing on battery standards, testing, and certification.
The bicycle industry's primary goal continues to be promoting safe, certified products while avoiding regulations that unnecessarily burden retailers and consumers.
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CALIFORNIA
California's battery safety requirements are now among the strongest in the nation.
The state's regulations require:
• Third-party safety certification for e-bikes and battery systems.
• Certification of charging equipment.
• Compliance with recognized safety standards such as UL certifications.
• Enhanced product labeling and documentation.
Why it matters:
California has historically served as a model for consumer product regulation. Similar battery safety legislation is expected to emerge in additional states over the next several years.
Potential retailer impact:
Retailers should verify that products sold through their stores meet applicable certification requirements and maintain documentation from suppliers.
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NEW YORK
S3560 – Battery Exchange and Replacement Program
New York continues exploring solutions aimed at reducing battery-related fires.
S3560 would establish programs to encourage the replacement of potentially unsafe batteries and support consumer access to safer alternatives.
Additional discussions in New York include:
• Expanded battery labeling requirements.
• Increased consumer education initiatives.
• Restrictions on uncertified replacement batteries.
• Enhanced enforcement authority.
Potential retailer impact:
Retailers should expect increasing scrutiny of aftermarket battery sales and greater emphasis on consumer education.
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COLORADO
Colorado continues implementation of battery safety and disclosure requirements associated with e-bike sales.
The state has focused on:
• Consumer awareness.
• Product certification.
• Retail disclosure requirements.
• Promotion of safe charging and storage practices.
Potential retailer impact:
Colorado's approach may provide a framework for future legislation in other states.
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🏛 FEDERAL UPDATE
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SAFE SPEEDS ACT
Federal lawmakers continue discussions surrounding the Safe SPEEDS Act, legislation designed to create greater consistency nationwide regarding electric two-wheeled vehicles.
The proposal would:
• Create clearer distinctions between legal e-bikes and electric motorcycles.
• Establish stronger federal labeling standards.
• Address modified or illegally marketed electric vehicles.
• Reduce confusion among consumers and enforcement agencies.
Why it matters:
Today, retailers often face a patchwork of state regulations. A federal framework could provide greater consistency while preserving the integrity of established e-bike classifications.
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CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY COMMISSION (CPSC)
The CPSC continues evaluating national standards related to lithium-ion battery safety.
Areas of focus include:
• Battery testing requirements.
• Fire prevention measures.
• Product certification.
• Consumer safety education.
• National safety standards for micromobility products.
Industry organizations continue advocating for consistent national standards that prioritize safety while allowing responsible businesses to continue growing the market.
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🚲 RETAILER ACTION CENTER
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While many of these proposals are still working their way through the legislative process, retailers have an opportunity to influence outcomes before regulations are finalized.
- KNOW THE PRODUCTS YOU SELL
Review your electric bicycle lineup and verify that all products are properly classified under applicable state and federal e-bike definitions.
Ask yourself:
• Do all products meet Class 1, 2, or 3 e-bike requirements?
• Are any higher-powered vehicles being marketed in ways that could create confusion?
• Are product descriptions and website listings accurate and compliant?
The clearer we are as an industry, the easier it becomes to defend legitimate e-bike access.
- VERIFY BATTERY CERTIFICATIONS
Work with suppliers to confirm battery and charging systems meet recognized safety standards.
Request documentation showing compliance with applicable certification standards, including:
• UL 2849 (e-bike electrical systems)
• UL 2271 (battery systems)
• Applicable charger and battery certifications
Maintain supplier documentation in case future state requirements mandate proof of compliance.
- EDUCATE CUSTOMERS BEFORE THEY LEAVE THE STORE
Many lawmakers cite rider behavior and battery misuse as reasons for new legislation.
Retailers can help shape the narrative by educating customers on:
• Safe riding practices
• Local e-bike laws
• Proper charging procedures
• Battery storage recommendations
• The risks associated with aftermarket batteries and chargers
Every educated rider helps demonstrate that the bicycle industry is committed to safety.
- BUILD RELATIONSHIPS WITH LOCAL OFFICIALS
Many e-bike regulations begin at the local level before moving to state legislatures.
Consider reaching out to:
• City council members
• Transportation departments
• Parks and recreation officials
• State legislators
Invite them to your store. Offer test rides. Explain the difference between e-bikes and e-motos. Share stories of how e-bikes benefit your community.
Retailers are often the most credible voice policymakers hear on these issues.
- REPORT LEGISLATIVE ACTIVITY TO THE NBDA
If you become aware of:
• Proposed e-bike restrictions
• Trail access issues
• Registration requirements
• Battery regulations
• Local e-moto ordinances
Please notify the NBDA.
Early awareness allows us to engage before legislation is finalized.
- PREPARE FOR FUTURE COMPLIANCE REQUIREMENTS
Based on current legislative trends, retailers should anticipate increased requirements related to:
• Battery certification documentation
• Product labeling
• Customer education
• Vehicle classification disclosures
• Safety information at the point of sale
Retailers who prepare now will be better positioned if additional regulations are adopted.
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📊 NBDA LEGISLATIVE DASHBOARD
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🔴 HIGH PRIORITY
• Illinois – SB 3336
• California – SB 1167
• New York – S9402
• Federal – Safe SPEEDS Act
🟡 MONITOR
• California – AB 1942
• New York – S3560
• State battery safety legislation
• Local e-moto regulations
🟢 INDUSTRY OPPORTUNITIES
• National battery safety standards
• Stronger product labeling requirements
• Clear separation of legal e-bikes and e-motos
• Increased consumer confidence in certified products
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NBDA TAKEAWAY
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The bicycle industry is entering a new phase of regulation.
Two issues continue to dominate legislative discussions nationwide:
- Preserving the distinction between legal e-bikes and higher-powered e-motos.
- Establishing practical lithium-ion battery safety standards centered around certified products and consumer education.
The NBDA supports efforts that improve rider safety, increase consumer confidence, and protect the long-term growth of the bicycle industry. We will continue monitoring legislation nationwide and will notify members when engagement or advocacy action is needed.
If you become aware of legislation affecting bicycle retailers in your state, please contact the NBDA team so we can continue representing the interests of specialty bicycle retailers across North America.
Ride Safe,