Politics
Ohio Proposal Would Require E-Bike Registration, Set Sidewalk Speed Limits
A bill introduced by state Sen. Bill DeMora would require helmets and state registration for e-bike and scooter riders, limit speeds on sidewalks and shared paths, and restrict younger riders. Rep. Eric Synenberg plans a separate proposal as lawmakers weigh safety rules ahead of the spring riding season.
Ohio state Sen. Bill DeMora, a Columbus Democrat, has introduced legislation that would establish statewide rules for electric bikes and scooters, including helmet requirements, age restrictions, speed limits and a $25 registration fee.
The proposal, Senate Bill 477, would bar children 13 and younger from operating e-bikes and e-scooters and prohibit riders under 18 from using high-powered e-bikes. It would also cap speeds at 10 mph on shared-use paths and 5 mph on sidewalks. State Rep. Eric Synenberg, a Beachwood Democrat, said he plans to introduce a related bill in the coming weeks.
The proposals come as e-bikes and scooters become more common on streets and paths, while Ohio’s existing rules vary by device type and location. Synenberg said the aim is not to prevent people from using the vehicles, but to set consistent expectations for riders, drivers, pedestrians, local governments, law enforcement and businesses.
Ohio classifies e-bikes in three categories. Class 1 and Class 2 models can reach about 20 mph, while Class 3 bikes can reach 28 mph. Riders must be at least 16 to operate a Class 3 e-bike and wear a helmet. Current state law does not set a minimum age for Class 1 or Class 2 e-bikes, Synenberg said.
The lawmakers cited injury concerns in supporting new limits. Children ages 11 to 14 account for nearly 40% of pediatric e-bike and scooter injuries nationwide, according to data from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. DeMora said Akron Children’s Hospital had treated more e-bike and scooter injuries by mid-July than in all of 2025. He listed brain injuries, fractures, road rash and injuries to internal organs among the harms seen.
The proposals would require personal e-bikes and scooters to be registered with the state. Riding an unregistered vehicle could be a minor misdemeanor, with the vehicle subject to impoundment for up to 30 days, Synenberg said. Several Franklin County municipalities already have their own rules, but DeMora argued that differing local requirements can confuse riders crossing municipal boundaries.
The Legislature was on break when the bills were announced and was expected to return after the November election. Any measure that does not pass before the two-year General Assembly ends in December would need to be introduced again. Synenberg said he hopes rules can be in place by spring, when use typically rises after winter. DeMora said passage during the post-election “lame duck” session remains possible.