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Bill

SB 576

adds definitions and reporting requirements relative to education freedom accounts.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Debra Altschiller and 1 co-sponsor

Empowers NC cities and counties to regulate e-bikes—class limits, paths, speeds, and helmets—while standardizing a three-class system statewide.

Hearing: 02/10/2026, Room Map Room, SL, 09:45 am; SC 4
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Bill Summary · SB 576

SB 576 — E‑Bike Definition and Local Regulation (North Carolina, 2025)

Status: Reported Favorably as Committee Substitute
Introduced: Feb. 20, 2025 (filed Mar. 25, 2025)
Jurisdiction: North Carolina General Assembly
Primary sponsors (per bill text): Senators Lee and Lazzara

Purpose

To update the statutory definition of “electric assisted bicycle” (e‑bike), align classifications with common industry standards, clarify where e‑bikes may be operated, and expressly authorize cities and counties to adopt local regulations (including speed limits, path restrictions, helmet rules, and penalties). The act also directs the Department of Transportation to produce educational materials on e‑bike safety.

Key provisions

  • Amends G.S. 20‑4.01(7a) to adopt a three‑class e‑bike scheme:
    • Class 1: Motor assists only while pedaling; assistance ceases at 20 mph.
    • Class 2: Motor may propel without pedaling; assistance ceases at 20 mph.
    • Class 3: Motor assists only while pedaling; assistance ceases at 28 mph.
    • (Text also references a 750‑watt motor threshold in the statutory paragraph.)
  • Adds § 20‑171.3:
    • Permits operation of electric assisted bicycles on roadways, bicycle lanes, and shared‑use paths except where local ordinances provide otherwise.
    • Requires riders and passengers on Class 3 e‑bikes to wear a helmet that meets federal standards.
  • Adds § 160A‑300.2 (municipal authority):
    • Cities may regulate e‑bike use on streets, roads, highways within municipal limits, including:
    • Restricting classes on multiuse paths, sidewalks, trails.
    • Establishing speed limits on greenways/shared‑use paths.
    • Requiring helmets for riders under 18 on specified classes.
    • Imposing penalties for violations.
  • Adds § 153A‑245.1 (county authority):
    • Counties may adopt the same regulation authority as cities; does not limit municipal authority.
  • Directs the Department of Transportation to develop public education materials about proper use and safety.

Who is affected

  • E‑bike riders and passengers (equipment and helmet requirements).
  • Local governments (cities/counties) — gain explicit authority to regulate e‑bike operation and set penalties.
  • State DOT — tasked with education and outreach.
  • Trail/greenway users and managing agencies — may see new speed limits or class restrictions.

Impact and timing

  • Primary effect: clarifies legal status of e‑bikes and decentralizes certain regulatory choices to local governments while establishing statewide baseline access to roadways, bike lanes, and shared‑use paths.
  • Potential local impacts: new ordinances restricting certain classes on trails/sidewalks, local helmet rules for minors, enforceable speed limits, and civil penalties.
  • Effective date: the act is effective upon becoming law and applies to all e‑bike riders and passengers from that date.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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