Special to the Reporter

During a public hearing in front of the House Transportation Committee on Jan. 21, Mercer Island Mayor Dave Rosenbaum testified in support of HB 2374, a bill currently being considered that would define e-motorcycles in state law, making them subject to existing laws and regulations governing traditional motorcycle use. Learn more about the bill: https://legiscan.com/WA/bill/HB2374/

In his testimony, Rosenbaum highlighted the importance of state legislation to address the dramatic increase in e-motorcycle use, particularly among young people: “As a parent of young children, the safety of young Islanders is consistently top of mind. This bill is an important first step in ensuring children throughout Washington are empowered to access e-bikes as a mobility option, while keeping their safety and decision-making ability in mind.”

City staff worked closely with primary sponsor Rep. Janice Zahn (whose 41st Legislative District includes Mercer Island) to draft the bill, which builds on local regulations adopted by the Mercer Island City Council last year and took effect on Jan. 1.