E-bike bill one step closer to becoming law as NHC commissioners consider ways to protect riders

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — A bill sponsored by Senator Michael Lee that would change North Carolina’s definitions of e-bikes is one step closer to becoming law.

Senate Bill 576 would classify e-bikes into 3 different categories, regarding speed and whether a throttle is used or not, joining 23 other states in how e-bikes are regulated.

This comes just weeks after New Hanover County commissioners discussed ordinances surrounding e-bikes in the county during an agenda meeting.

Board vice chair LeAnn Pierce said the county should encourage people to spend more time outside, while ensuring riders aren’t breaking any laws.

“So I hate to punish everybody that is a responsible e-bike rider for those folks that aren’t,” Pierce said. “So the question is where is that middle ground where we can allow responsible people to do what they do and abide by the law, but then again have rules that apply to people who don’t.”

Senate Bill 576 was referred to the Senate Transportation Committee for discussion on Tuesday.