State Sen. Bill DeMora backed a measure Wednesday establishing uniform electric bicycle laws across Toledo. The legislation establishes standard traffic safety rules to protect all road users across the state.
The proposed vehicle code mandates helmets for all operators. The bill creates age limits. The measure bars anyone under 14 from operating electric bikes or electric scooters. Riders under 18 cannot operate any rented device.
Passengers under 12 cannot ride unless the driver is 21 or older. Each device requires registration. Device registration would cost the owner $25.
The proposal introduces driver education modules on electric bicycle road regulations. State driver license exams would add testing material covering road safety rules. Supporters in Toledo stated the rules will ensure everyone on the road is safe.
DeMora, D-Columbus, said he saw seven-year-old and eight-year-old children operating devices without following traffic rules. He reported seeing three riders on a single unit ignoring stop signs and stop lights.
“The education portion is really important because if you don’t have a driver’s license and don’t take a driver’s course, then you don’t know what the laws are,” DeMora said. “And you are on these scooters, you might not know you can’t go down the wrong way on a one-way street or be on a sidewalk.”
The measure was introduced in the Senate and awaits introduction in the House. More than 2,200 Ohio townships, villages and cities like Toledo previously enacted individual device regulations.
State legislative proposals advance through committee reviews and floor votes in both general assembly chambers. Municipal codes govern moving vehicle operations until statewide statutory standards formally take effect. Lawmakers consider traffic amendments during regular legislative sessions.
