Elected leaders are ramping up their efforts to enhance e-bike safety, with Assembly member Tasha Boerner introducing a new bill to protect young riders. The proposed legislation, announced at Earl Warren Elementary School in Solana Beach, mandates that young e-bike users across California take and pass a written safety test.
Assembly Bill 2234
Assembly Bill 2234’s aim is clear: provide the growing number of young e-bike riders with a solid grasp of traffic rules and underscore e-bike usage responsibilities for kids and their parents.
“E-bikes provide that sense of freedom that so many kids and Californians are looking for, but it’s crucial that we ensure they know how to ride using the rules of our roads, and make safe and smart decisions when sharing the road with cars and pedestrians,” Boerner emphasized.
Evolution from Previous Legislation
AB 2234 is a refined version of AB 530, a bill Boerner proposed last year. AB 530 sought to require licenses for all e-bike riders over 12 without a valid driver’s license. However, a DMV moratorium on licensure changes until 2030 prompted a strategic pivot.
Instead of a license, the new bill requires a written test based on safety training from the California Highway Patrol, a provision introduced in Boerner’s AB 1946. Those who pass the test will need a state-issued ID to ensure compliance.
Broad Support and Need for Statewide Consistency
Various local leaders, including those from San Diego, Del Mar, Solana Beach, Encinitas, Carlsbad, and local school districts, support Boerner’s bill. These communities have seen a spike in e-bike accidents and have tightened regulations and enhanced school safety presentations.
Despite local efforts, leaders like Del Mar Mayor Dave Druker argue that uniform state regulations are essential.
Real-Life Impacts and Calls for Action
Tragic incidents, such as the death of 15-year-old Brodee Champlain Kingman in Encinitas, underscore the urgency of e-bike safety. San Dieguito Union High School District board president Rimga Viskanta pointed out that, following the incident, the district required students to complete bike safety training to ride e-bikes to school. However, the need for students to demonstrate their understanding of bike safety laws remains unaddressed.
Focus on Equity and Education
Boerner’s bill also prioritizes equity. Instead of imposing fines, young riders who violate e-bike rules would be diverted to bike traffic school and community service.
What’s Next?
The bill is now heading to the Rules Committee and will likely be reviewed by the Assembly Transportation Committee. As the legislation progresses, the focus remains on fostering a safer environment for young e-bike riders across California.
E-bike safety is a growing concern as more young riders take to the streets. Assembly member Tasha Boerner’s new bill, AB 2234, aims to address this by requiring young e-bike riders to pass a written safety test, ensuring they understand and can adhere to traffic rules. With broad support from local leaders and a focus on education and equity, this legislation could be a significant step forward in making California’s roads safer for everyone.