POLITICS

Municipal governments advance local e-bike and excavation rules

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Fernandina Beach, Fla. City commissioners on Tuesday advanced a revised ordinance regulating e-bikes, scooters and personal mobility devices on a second reading, with a third reading scheduled for July 7; Police Chief Jeff Tambasco said the measure mirrors Florida statutes and sets speed limits of 10 mph on sidewalks and trails and up to 25 mph on roadways. Marquette, Mich., on Tuesday voted unanimously to allow electric mobility devices not greater than 750 watts on multi-use paths, ban reckless riding and prohibit mobility devices on downtown sidewalks with violations treated as civil infractions effective immediately; Buckhannon, W.Va., on Wednesday approved Ordinance 478 regulating excavation in public rights-of-way, with no public speakers at the hearing and council members voting unanimously.

Prepared by Lauren Mitchell and reviewed by editorial team.

Timeline of Events

Marquette City Commission held a meeting Tuesday and unanimously passed an e-bike ordinance allowing devices up to 750 watts on multi-use paths.
Buckhannon City Council held a public hearing Wednesday and unanimously passed Ordinance 478 regulating excavation of public rights-of-way.
Fernandina Beach City Commission approved a revised e-bike and personal mobility device ordinance on second reading during a Tuesday meeting.
Fernandina officials (Police Chief Jeff Tambasco, City Attorney Teresa Prince) outlined statutory definitions, speed limits and safety rationale during meetings and public statements.
Fernandina scheduled a third reading for the revised ordinance in July (articles reference July 7 and the 'third Tuesday of July').

Why This Matters to You

These new rules affect how you move around town. In Fernandina Beach, e-bikes and scooters now have speed limits. In Marquette, e-bikes up to 750 watts are now allowed on multi-use paths. Check your local rules before you ride.

The Bottom Line

Local governments are adapting to new mobility trends. They're setting rules for e-bikes and scooters, and managing public spaces like sidewalks and trails. Worth forwarding if you know someone who uses these devices.