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HF2811 (Legislative Session 94 (2025-2026))

Helmets required for operator of electric-assisted bicycles under the age of 18, and penalty provided.

Related bill: SF3236

AI Generated Summary

Purpose of the Bill

The purpose of this bill is to enhance public safety by requiring helmet use for young operators of electric-assisted bicycles in Minnesota. It aims to reduce the risk of injury among minors by setting protective measures and associated penalties for non-compliance.

Main Provisions

  • Helmet Requirement: The bill mandates that individuals under the age of 18 must wear a helmet while operating an electric-assisted bicycle. The helmets must be approved by the commissioner of public safety.
  • Penalty for Non-Compliance: If someone under the age of 18 is caught not wearing a helmet while riding an electric-assisted bicycle, they will be subject to a monetary fine.
  • Operation of Electric-Assisted Bicycles:
    • Individuals may ride electric-assisted bicycles in the same manner as regular bicycles, including on roadways, bicycle lanes, routes, and trails, similar to other bicycles.
    • Operation with the motor engaged is allowed on specified paths and trails unless explicitly prohibited by local regulations.
    • Class 3 or multiple-mode electric-assisted bicycles can also operate on these paths unless restricted by local authorities.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

The bill introduces a legal requirement not previously stated in the law for young operators of electric-assisted bicycles to wear helmets, creating a specific safety protocol for this mode of transport. It also establishes penalties for non-compliance with this new safety measure.

Relevant Terms

  • Electric-assisted bicycles
  • Helmet requirement
  • Public safety
  • Penalty
  • Bicycle trails/paths
  • Commissioner of public safety

Bill text versions

Actions

DateChamberWhereTypeNameCommittee Name
March 25, 2025HouseFloorActionIntroduction and first reading, referred toTransportation Finance and Policy

Citations

 
[
  {
    "analysis": {
      "added": [
        "Requirement for helmet use for operators under 18 approved by the commissioner of public safety."
      ],
      "removed": [],
      "summary": "This bill modifies the regulations for operating electric-assisted bicycles, specifically adding helmet requirements for operators under 18.",
      "modified": []
    },
    "citation": "169.222",
    "subdivision": "6a"
  },
  {
    "analysis": {
      "added": [],
      "removed": [],
      "summary": "This section is referenced in relation to the prohibition of certain electric-assisted bicycles on specific paths.",
      "modified": []
    },
    "citation": "85.015",
    "subdivision": "subdivision 1d"
  },
  {
    "analysis": {
      "added": [],
      "removed": [],
      "summary": "This provision concerns the operation of class 1 and class 2 electric-assisted bicycles and their restrictions.",
      "modified": []
    },
    "citation": "85.018",
    "subdivision": "subdivision 2"
  },
  {
    "analysis": {
      "added": [],
      "removed": [],
      "summary": "Addresses the prohibition of certain electric-assisted bicycles on shared paths or trails.",
      "modified": []
    },
    "citation": "160.263",
    "subdivision": "subdivision 2"
  }
]

Sponsors