Committee debates e‑bike safety rules; asks staff to draft county resolution

Public Works staff presented possible e‑bike regulations and a recommended approach for either a county ordinance or a resolution to the Wisconsin Counties Association (WCA/WCHA) to seek a more uniform state approach. Staff outlined sample measures including minimum age limits by class, a 16‑year minimum for class‑3 bikes capable of exceeding 20 mph, registration for vehicles over 750 watts and lighting/headlight and taillight requirements for nighttime riding.

"A summary of my recommendations on page 38 is, age restrictions, operators of class 1 and 2 ebikes must be older. Operators of class 3 bikes, the ones that are capable of going over 20, must be 16 or older," staff said.

Committee members raised enforcement challenges and requested law‑enforcement input. One committee member said, "I totally agree. I read your memo from front to back and I truly... I'm anti ebike 100%." The group asked staff to consult municipal partners and sheriff/chief law‑enforcement representatives and to return with proposed language; the committee approved a motion to proceed with drafting a resolution and/or ordinance language for future meetings.

The committee emphasized coordination with municipalities and the Traffic Safety Commission; staff said the proposed resolution would also recommend school training if forwarded as a resolution to WCHA.