Here's what to know about Florida proposal for e-bikes regulations

In recent months, Florida lawmakers have made swift progress with a proposal that could transform the use of electric bikes (e-bikes) across the state.

If the initiative is approved and signed by the governor, the new rules could take effect as early as July 1, 2026, or 2027—depending on the version of the bill—sparking considerable interest among cyclists, families, and businesses.

What is the goal of this law?

The main objective of these regulations is to enhance safety for pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers in shared spaces, while updating guidelines to reflect the reality of increasingly powerful electric vehicles already present in cities and parks.

Senator Keith Truenow, the bill’s sponsor, expressed that the goal is to ensure “everyone can get from one place to another safely.”

What changes does the legislation propose?

Here are the main measures included in the bills introduced in both the Florida Senate and House of Representatives:

Vehicle Reclassification

E-bikes with motors exceeding 750 watts and capable of reaching speeds over 28 miles per hour would be reclassified as electric motorcycles (e-motorbikes), no longer categorized as traditional e-bikes.

Restrictions in Pedestrian Zones

E-motorbikes would be prohibited from using bike lanes and sidewalks, requiring them to operate in vehicle-designated lanes instead.

Speed Limit Near Pedestrians

A speed limit of 10 miles per hour would be enforced in areas with pedestrians, such as crowded sidewalks or trails.

Mandatory Licensing

Riders of e-bikes capable of speeds of 28 mph or higher—typically categorized as Class 3—may require a driver’s license or learner’s permit to operate them.

Signaling and Shared Space Use

Users would need to yield to pedestrians and provide an audible signal when passing in parks and trails.

Crash Data Reporting

Traffic accident reports would include specific details on whether an e-bike or e-motorbike was involved, addressing a current gap in data collection.

Why was this measure proposed?

The use of e-bikes has grown significantly in Florida and across the country, becoming a popular option for urban transportation, recreation, and tourism.

However, there has also been a rise in reports of conflicts with pedestrians, particularly in busy areas like boardwalks, parks, and sidewalks. Lawmakers and local authorities warn that the speed and power of some models exceed what many consider safe for shared spaces.

Additionally, the existence of varied local regulations—such as age limits or sidewalk restrictions—has caused confusion, highlighting the need for unified state-level regulation.

What penalties could violators face?

While the final text will depend on the version passed, the proposals include:

• Fines or citations for exceeding speed limits or riding in prohibited areas.
• Penalties for operating certain models without the required license.
• Fines for unauthorized modifications to motors or speed systems.

What’s next?

The bill still needs to complete its legislative process and be signed by the governor to become law. Some versions propose its implementation by July 2026, while others suggest 2027, leaving room for adjustments and public debate.

For now, e-bikes remain classified as bicycles under current law if they are equipped with motors under 750 watts and assist up to a maximum of 28 mph, allowing them to operate in the same spaces as traditional bicycles.

This story was translated from Spanish with the help of a generative artificial intelligence tool. An NBC digital editor reviewed the translation.