Joint committees back updated rules for electric bicycles with amendments

The Senate committees on Transportation and Energy on March 17 voted to advance HB2021 (HD2), a measure to create a regulatory framework for electric bicycles and other micro-mobility devices.

Robin Shishido of DOT said the department stood by written testimony in strong support. Jamie Yamamoto of the insurance division asked for clarification to avoid requiring traditional motor-vehicle insurance language to inadvertently apply to bicycles. Major Bert Soria of the Honolulu Police Department urged support, saying the bill ‘‘establishes a clear and updated regulatory framework for electric bikes ... providing officers with consistent and enforceable standards.’’

Lauren Lohr of the Hawaii Public Health Institute and other public-health advocates said the measure promotes safer walking and travel to work, school and services. Representatives from AAA, bicycling groups and safety advocates also registered support.

Committee chairs noted the bill addresses concerns that led to a gubernatorial veto of a prior session’s measure by clarifying the scope (class 1–3 e-bikes only) and excluding higher-powered devices. The Department of Education’s earlier guidance on campus devices was referenced as an example of why statute should be clarified first and guidance should follow.

In decision-making the joint committees recommended passing HB2021 HD2 with amendments suggested by DCCA and the Department of Education. The committee vote recorded the recommendation as adopted by members present and forwarded the bill for further consideration.