Legalize e-bikes under 30 mph for under 18s
The Issue
My independence took a huge blow when I had my e-bike impounded just because I'm under 18 and the speed limit was 28 mph. Being a teenager in the United States, e-bikes are a practical way to get around when numerous activities fill our schedules and public transport isn't always a viable option. But the current regulations mean my e-bike—an eco-friendly, efficient, and budget-friendly means of transportation—could end up costing me unnecessarily. The possibility of getting my bike seized and then paying for its release is overwhelming.
With e-bikes becoming more popular among youths, a tweak in the law can prevent unnecessary penalties. E-bikes often have higher speeds and watts, yet they offer a valuable transport solution, especially for young people living in sprawling cities or suburban neighborhoods. To outlaw their use for those under 18 is to ignore a larger society need for sustainable transportation options.
Research shows that a considerable number of young people rely on e-bikes for their daily commutes, to run errands, or even to go to school. With the cost of living continually rising, parents and youngsters are opting for e-bikes to manage expenses. According to a report by Allied Market Research, the global e-bike market size was valued at $40.3 billion in 2019, and is projected to reach $118.6 billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 10.5% from 2021 to 2030. Clearly, e-bikes are here to stay, and are becoming integral to modern transportation.
We propose a revision to the current regulations, making it legal for those under 18 to ride e-bikes with speed limits under 30 mph. By slightly increasing the speed limit, we align the lawful use of e-bikes with practical functions, protecting the well-being and autonomy of young users who heavily rely on e-bikes for their daily lives.
Sign this petition if you believe in fair access to safe and sustainable transportation solutions for everyone, regardless of age. Let's encourage reasonable, beneficial change in e-bike legislation to safeguard the future of our youth and our environment.
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The Issue
My independence took a huge blow when I had my e-bike impounded just because I'm under 18 and the speed limit was 28 mph. Being a teenager in the United States, e-bikes are a practical way to get around when numerous activities fill our schedules and public transport isn't always a viable option. But the current regulations mean my e-bike—an eco-friendly, efficient, and budget-friendly means of transportation—could end up costing me unnecessarily. The possibility of getting my bike seized and then paying for its release is overwhelming.
With e-bikes becoming more popular among youths, a tweak in the law can prevent unnecessary penalties. E-bikes often have higher speeds and watts, yet they offer a valuable transport solution, especially for young people living in sprawling cities or suburban neighborhoods. To outlaw their use for those under 18 is to ignore a larger society need for sustainable transportation options.
Research shows that a considerable number of young people rely on e-bikes for their daily commutes, to run errands, or even to go to school. With the cost of living continually rising, parents and youngsters are opting for e-bikes to manage expenses. According to a report by Allied Market Research, the global e-bike market size was valued at $40.3 billion in 2019, and is projected to reach $118.6 billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 10.5% from 2021 to 2030. Clearly, e-bikes are here to stay, and are becoming integral to modern transportation.
We propose a revision to the current regulations, making it legal for those under 18 to ride e-bikes with speed limits under 30 mph. By slightly increasing the speed limit, we align the lawful use of e-bikes with practical functions, protecting the well-being and autonomy of young users who heavily rely on e-bikes for their daily lives.
Sign this petition if you believe in fair access to safe and sustainable transportation solutions for everyone, regardless of age. Let's encourage reasonable, beneficial change in e-bike legislation to safeguard the future of our youth and our environment.
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Petition created on November 1, 2026