For my son Jesse’s 13th birthday, we bought him an electric trike. When he was growing up, he could never learn to ride a two-wheel bike. The combination of pedaling, balancing, steering, and making rapid decisions was simply too much for his brain to process. It wasn’t a lack of effort — it was a neurological reality. But in one single day — the day he got his e-trike — his life changed. Suddenly, we could ride as a family again — exploring local parks, venturing into town, and visiting school. Today, at 15, Jesse cherishes his independence, riding freely to school and participating actively in our community. However, New Jersey's newly proposed e-bike law poses a significant threat to this cherished freedom. Jesse, who will never be able to obtain the necessary license to operate his e-trike, would lose access to the one form of transportation enabling his participation in everyday life.

The new legislation mandates that all e-bike users, even low-speed Class 1 and 2 users, obtain a license, unwittingly stripping independence from disabled riders and adaptive e-trike users. This is more than a convenience issue; it's about inclusivity, freedom, and equal access. Many individuals, like Jesse, rely on adaptive e-trikes as their primary means of mobility, fostering independence and inclusion. The throttle of a Class 2 bike is what makes this independence possible for him.

In New Jersey alone, thousands of families rely on adaptive transport solutions. According to the Department of Transportation, adaptive bikes and trikes increase accessibility for over 20,000 disabled residents, promoting independence and community engagement. Stripping them of such vital resources counters the values of inclusivity and equal opportunity.

We must urge Governor Murphy to reconsider the ramifications of this regulation. A potential solution could involve creating an exemption for disabled riders and adaptive e-trike users, preserving their access to vital transportation means without burdensome licensure requirements. Numerous states have already adopted adaptive vehicle exemptions, balancing safety with accessibility for all citizens. New Jersey should join this progressive initiative.

Sign this petition to protect the freedom and rights of individuals like Jesse. Encourage our legislators to embrace inclusivity by preserving and improving the 3-class system, leaving Classes 1 and 2 as they are, and maintaining accessibility for all adaptive transport users. By signing this petition, you lend your voice to a crucial cause, supporting the freedom and independence of countless disabled residents in New Jersey.