SF3236 (Legislative Session 94 (2025-2026))

Helmets requirement for operators of electric-assisted bicycles under the age of 18

Related bill: HF2811

AI Generated Summary

Purpose of the Bill

The bill aims to enhance the safety regulations for young operators of electric-assisted bicycles, specifically by enforcing helmet usage for individuals under the age of 18.

Main Provisions

  • Helmet Requirement: Individuals under 18 must wear helmets that meet approval standards set by the commissioner of public safety when operating electric-assisted bicycles. Failure to comply will result in a penalty.
  • Age Restrictions: Persons under the age of 15 are prohibited from operating electric-assisted bicycles.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

  • Helmet Enforcement: This is a new requirement that enforces safety gear use among minors operating electric-assisted bicycles, which did not previously exist under Minnesota's bicycle laws.
  • Age Restriction Clarification: Specifies the minimum age for operating electric-assisted bicycles, tightening regulations compared to prior statutes.

Relevant Terms

electric-assisted bicycle, helmet requirement, minor safety, age restriction, public safety regulations, class 1 electric bicycle, class 2 electric bicycle, class 3 electric bicycle.

Bill text versions

Actions

DateChamberWhereTypeNameCommittee Name
April 01, 2025SenateFloorActionIntroduction and first reading
April 01, 2025SenateFloorActionIntroduction and first reading
April 01, 2025SenateFloorActionReferred toTransportation

Citations

 
[
  {
    "analysis": {
      "added": [
        "Introduces mandatory helmet requirement for operators under age 18."
      ],
      "removed": [
        ""
      ],
      "summary": "This bill modifies the rules for operating electric-assisted bicycles under section 169.222, subdivision 6a.",
      "modified": [
        "Clarifies operation rules on bicycle paths and trails."
      ]
    },
    "citation": "169.222",
    "subdivision": "subdivision 6a"
  },
  {
    "analysis": {
      "added": [
        ""
      ],
      "removed": [
        ""
      ],
      "summary": "References existing restriction on operation of electric-assisted bicycles on certain trails.",
      "modified": [
        ""
      ]
    },
    "citation": "85.015",
    "subdivision": "subdivision 1d"
  },
  {
    "analysis": {
      "added": [
        ""
      ],
      "removed": [
        ""
      ],
      "summary": "Includes reference to existing regulation on use of electric-assisted bicycles.",
      "modified": [
        ""
      ]
    },
    "citation": "85.018",
    "subdivision": "subdivision 2"
  },
  {
    "analysis": {
      "added": [
        ""
      ],
      "removed": [
        ""
      ],
      "summary": "Mentions application of existing bicycle path and trail regulations to electric-assisted bicycles.",
      "modified": [
        ""
      ]
    },
    "citation": "160.263",
    "subdivision": "subdivision 2"
  }
]