Dr. Alexander Reynolds
Central Oregon State Representative Emerson Levy is determined to improve e-bike legislation in the region, despite recent setbacks in the short session. Although her original bill did not pass, Levy believes that the bill that did succeed, which defines classifications for electric bicycles, is a positive step forward. Levy emphasizes the importance of clarifying existing laws and regulations, as it impacts the ability of cities, schools, and police departments to operate smoothly.
Levy’s proposed legislation aimed to introduce an education program, permit children under 16 to ride Class One electric bikes, and establish penalties for parents whose children violate e-bike laws. Unfortunately, conflicts arose between the bill and certain cycling advocates in Portland who sought greater freedom and fewer restrictions. Levy stood firm on her priorities, unwilling to compromise on ensuring the safety and well-being of young riders.
The bill, named Trenton’s Law after a Bend teenager who tragically lost his life in an e-bike accident, received support from Trenton’s parents. Witnessing the devastating impact of such incidents prompted a stronger push for restrictions. Levy acknowledges that understanding the urgency of these measures is challenging unless one has experienced a similar fatality firsthand.
Despite the setback, Levy remains committed to revisiting the issue in 2025. Additionally, she is exploring a California program that requires schools to obtain parking permits for bicycles. These permits, in the form of free stickers affixed to bikes, indicate that the rider has completed a safety class and operates within the established limits, irrespective of being an e-bike or a regular bike.
Above all, Levy aims to raise awareness and educate parents about the potential dangers associated with e-bikes. Drawing parallels to evaluating the appropriateness of a cell phone for a child, she emphasizes the importance of understanding the power and risks of these machines. Levy urges parents to be mindful of their child’s abilities, their level of education regarding road safety, and their competence in navigating the streets.
Representative Emerson Levy’s commitment to promoting safer e-bike laws in Central Oregon serves as a reminder to prioritize the well-being of young riders and foster open conversations within families about the responsible and safe use of these powerful vehicles.
The e-bike industry has experienced rapid growth in recent years, with market forecasts predicting continued expansion. According to a report by Market Research Future, the global e-bike market is expected to reach $38.6 billion by 2025, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.39% from 2019 to 2025. This growth can be attributed to factors such as increasing environmental concerns, rising fuel prices, and the desire for a more sustainable mode of transportation.
While the market outlook for e-bikes is positive, there are several issues related to the industry that need to be addressed. One of the main concerns is the lack of uniform regulations and laws governing e-bikes. Different regions have different definitions and classifications for e-bikes, making it difficult for manufacturers, riders, and law enforcement agencies to navigate the legal landscape.
In Central Oregon, Representative Emerson Levy has been advocating for improved e-bike legislation to address these issues. Levy’s proposed legislation aimed to establish clear classifications for electric bicycles, introduce educational programs, and enforce penalties for violators. While her original bill did not pass, Levy sees the bill that did succeed as a step in the right direction.
Another issue related to e-bikes is safety. With the increasing popularity of e-bikes, there has been a rise in accidents and fatalities involving these vehicles. This has prompted calls for stricter regulations and safety measures to protect riders, particularly young riders who may not have the necessary skills and experience to handle the power and speed of e-bikes.
To address these safety concerns, Levy’s bill was named Trenton’s Law after a teenager who tragically lost his life in an e-bike accident. This tragic incident highlighted the urgent need for restrictions and education programs to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Levy is also exploring the implementation of a California program that requires schools to obtain parking permits for bicycles. This program, which includes e-bikes, aims to ensure that riders have completed a safety class and understand the rules and regulations surrounding the use of bicycles, promoting safer practices among young riders.
Overall, Representative Emerson Levy’s commitment to improving e-bike legislation in Central Oregon reflects the growing importance of addressing industry-related issues such as regulation, safety, and education. As the e-bike market continues to expand, it is crucial to prioritize the well-being of riders and foster open conversations about responsible and safe e-bike usage.
