Peekskill attorney outlines proposed e-bike law; public hearing set for Aug. 17

The city attorney walked the council through a redrafted local law intended to regulate electric bicycles, scooters and other electric personal-transportation vehicles by amending Chapter 182 and (for clarity) Chapter 416. The draft defines device classes, excludes mobility-assistance devices used by people with disabilities, sets minimum age limits, prohibits sidewalk operation, requires right-side, single-file roadway operation and expands penalties for reckless operation that causes contact with another person.

The attorney said the police department will adopt implementing procedures for impoundment and parent notification when devices are taken from under-16 operators, and that the local law clarifies existing prohibitions on riding on park paths and walks. Council members suggested a minor wording addition (add "or roadways" where the code reads "public highways"). A public hearing was scheduled for Aug. 17.