STATE GOVERNMENT-TECH

104th Regular Session Introduced by Dee Avelar and 6 co-sponsors

Bill HB 958 aimed to regulate electric mobility devices, enhancing safety and promoting their use, but was vetoed, leaving manufacturers and users without new guidelines.

Placed on Calendar Order of Concurrence Senate Amendment(s) 1, 2, 3

Overview

Bill Number: HB 958
Introduced: January 21, 2025
Status: Vetoed on July 3, 2025 (Gov. Msg. No. 1401)
Classification: Bill
Subject: Regulation of Electric Bicycles, Electric Micro Mobility Devices, Electric Mobility Devices, Electric Motorcycles, and High-Speed Electric Devices

The purpose of Bill HB 958 was to establish a regulatory framework for various electric transportation devices, including electric bicycles and motorcycles, to enhance safety and promote their use within the state.

Key Provisions

The bill aimed to implement the following key provisions:

Definition and Classification: The bill sought to define and classify electric bicycles, electric micro mobility devices, electric mobility devices, electric motorcycles, and high-speed electric devices. This classification was intended to clarify the legal status and operational parameters of these vehicles.

Regulatory Framework: HB 958 proposed a set of regulations governing the use of these devices on public roads and pathways. This included:

Safety Standards: Establishing safety requirements for manufacturers and users.
Licensing and Registration: Potential requirements for licensing and registration of certain high-speed electric devices.
Operational Guidelines: Guidelines for where and how these devices could be operated, including speed limits and designated pathways.

Encouragement of Use: The bill aimed to promote the use of electric mobility devices as a sustainable alternative to traditional vehicles, thereby supporting environmental goals and reducing traffic congestion.

Impact

The bill would have affected various stakeholders, including:

Manufacturers: Companies producing electric bicycles and other mobility devices would need to comply with new safety and regulatory standards.

Consumers: Users of electric mobility devices would be subject to new operational guidelines, potentially affecting where and how they could ride.

Local Governments: Municipalities would need to adapt their infrastructure and regulations to accommodate the new classifications and guidelines for electric mobility devices.

Legislative Timeline

January 21, 2025: Bill introduced and passed first reading.

February 4, 2025: Passed second reading and referred to the Judiciary and Hawaiian Affairs (JHA) committee.

May 1, 2025: Transmitted to the Governor after passing final readings in both the House and Senate.

July 3, 2025: The Governor vetoed the bill, returning it without approval (Gov. Msg. No. 1401).

Conclusion

While HB 958 aimed to create a comprehensive regulatory framework for electric mobility devices, it ultimately did not receive approval from the Governor. The discussions surrounding the bill highlighted the growing interest in electric transportation solutions and the need for clear regulations to ensure safety and promote their use.

Bill