SPRINGFIELD - The Illinois Senate advanced a measure without opposition that would establish a regulatory framework for electric bicycles, motorcycles and scooters, responding to the growing popularity of the devices and the safety concerns they have raised.
The bill passed 54-0 and now moves to the House. It was initiated by Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias’ office.
Under the legislation, riders of e-bikes and e-motos capable of traveling more than 28 mph would be required to have a driver’s license, title, registration and insurance. Riders of such devices, along with e-scooters, electric skateboards and electric unicycles, would be prohibited from exceeding 28 mph on roads, bike paths and sidewalks, the secretary of state’s office said. Riders of electric micromobility vehicles would have to be at least 16 years old, though 15-year-olds would be permitted to ride lower-speed e-bikes.