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A 590

Requires persons the ages of 16 or 17 to wear a helmet when riding a class one or class two bicycle with electric assist

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Amy Paulin and 1 co-sponsor

Bill A 590 mandates that 16- and 17-year-olds wear helmets while riding electric assist bicycles, aiming to reduce head injury risks and promote safer riding habits.

REFERRED TO TRANSPORTATION
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · A 590

Summary of Bill A 590

Bill Number: A 590
Title: Requires persons ages 16 or 17 to wear a helmet when riding a class one or class two bicycle with electric assist
Status: Referred to Transportation
Introduced: January 08, 2025
Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

Bill A 590 aims to enhance safety regulations for young riders of electric assist bicycles. Specifically, it mandates that individuals aged 16 and 17 must wear helmets while operating class one or class two bicycles equipped with electric assist features. The intent of this legislation is to reduce the risk of head injuries and promote safer riding practices among teenagers.

Key Provisions

  • Helmet Requirement:

    • The bill stipulates that all riders aged 16 and 17 must wear a helmet while riding class one or class two electric assist bicycles.

  • Definition of Bicycles:

    • Class one bicycles are defined as those equipped with a motor that provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling and ceases to provide assistance when the bicycle reaches a speed of 20 miles per hour.
    • Class two bicycles are defined as those equipped with a motor that can propel the bicycle without pedaling, but the assistance is limited to a maximum speed of 20 miles per hour.

Affected Parties

  • Teen Riders:

    • The primary group affected by this bill is teenagers aged 16 and 17 who ride electric assist bicycles. They will be required to wear helmets, which may influence their riding habits and safety practices.

  • Parents and Guardians:

    • Parents and guardians may need to ensure compliance with this law for their children, potentially impacting their decisions regarding bicycle use.

  • Bicycle Manufacturers and Retailers:

    • Manufacturers and retailers of electric assist bicycles may need to provide information about helmet requirements and ensure that their products comply with safety regulations.

Legislative Timeline

  • Introduced: January 08, 2025
  • Reported: May 29, 2025
  • Passed Assembly: May 29, 2025
  • Delivered to Senate: May 29, 2025
  • Referred to Transportation: May 29, 2025

Related Bills

  • A 3073: A prior-session bill that may have addressed similar issues regarding bicycle safety.
  • S 1542: A companion bill in the Senate that aligns with the objectives of A 590.

Conclusion

Bill A 590 represents a proactive approach to youth safety in the context of electric assist bicycles. By mandating helmet use for young riders, the legislation seeks to mitigate the risks associated with riding these increasingly popular modes of transportation. As the bill progresses through the legislative process, it will be important to monitor its impact on safety and compliance among the targeted age group.

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

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