We, the undersigned parents, guardians, and community members, are calling on the Scottsdale Unified School District to implement a policy prohibiting elementary school students from riding electric bikes (e-bikes) and electric scooters to and from school.

While these devices may be convenient, they present serious safety concerns for young children who often lack the judgment, experience, and reaction time needed to operate them responsibly. E-bikes and e-scooters can reach speeds far exceeding traditional bicycles, increasing the risk of accidents involving pedestrians, other students, and vehicles, particularly in busy school zones.

Many parents have expressed growing concern about near-misses, unsafe riding behaviors, and the potential for serious injury. School campuses and surrounding neighborhoods are not designed to safely accommodate high-speed electric devices operated by elementary-aged children.

Local regulations already acknowledge the safety risks associated with electric bikes and scooters. In nearby Phoenix, riders must be at least 16 years old to operate e-bikes and e-scooters, reflecting the level of responsibility and awareness required to use these high-speed devices safely. While Scottsdale has implemented partial restrictions, such as limiting higher-speed (Class 3) e-bikes for riders under 16, current policies still leave significant gaps. As a result, elementary-aged children, who are well below this age threshold, are often still riding these devices to and from school. This inconsistency highlights the urgent need for clear, school-specific policies within the Scottsdale Unified School District to ensure the safety of all students and better align with the intent of existing local safety standards.

Based on the research, there is clear and concerning data showing that e-bike-related injuries are rising at an alarming rate and are significantly more severe than those associated with traditional bicycles. For example, injuries have increased by nearly 300% in recent years, with hospitalizations and fractures rising even more dramatically. Additionally, youth riders face a disproportionately high risk of traumatic brain injuries and serious head trauma compared to traditional cyclists. These are not minor incidents. They are serious, life-altering injuries. This does not just impact Cochise, but all everyone. 

Our goal is not to limit independence, but to prioritize the safety and well-being of all students. We respectfully urge the district to establish clear guidelines that restrict the use of e-bikes and e-scooters for elementary students traveling to and from school.

By signing this petition, you support a safer environment for our children and a proactive approach to preventing avoidable accidents.