U.S. Department of the Interior Releases E-Bike Guidance

The U.S. Department of the Interior (DOI) has announced guidelines aimed at “Increasing Recreational Opportunities Through the Use of Electric Bikes,” on DOI-managed lands. 

From coverage in Ruidoso News:

The move will expand recreational opportunities and access to millions of Americans, according to a release from the DOI.
The policy also supports Secretary’s Order 3366 to increase recreational opportunities on public lands, the release stated.
The majority of states have adopted e-bike policies, which primarily have followed model legislation allowing for three classes of e-bikes to have access to bicycle trails. The DOI e-bike guidance seeks to provide consistency with the state and local rules where possible, according to the release.

Secretary’s Order 3376 directs DOI bureaus to begin the longer term process of obtaining public input on new regulations that will clarify that low-speed e-bikes should enjoy the same access as conventional bicycles, consistent with other federal and state laws.

For more information read the full DOI Order.

As e-bikes become increasingly popular, the National Conference of State Legislatures observes that States will need to continue clarifying their e-bike classifications and improving their safety regulations. More information on e-bikes is available with their Legislative Primer.

Learn how parks and rec departments are addressing bike and pedestrian needs as well as emerging trends such as E-Scooters and E-Bikes at the MACo Winter Conference. Attend the Sharing the Trail: Bicycles, Pedestrians, and Now…E-Scooters?!? to learn more.

Details follow:

  • Title: Sharing the Trail: Bicycles, Pedestrians, and Now…E-Scooters?!?
  • Description: County and state parks continue to expand bicycle and pedestrian access and trail interconnectivity in response to ongoing public demand. However, trails are about to get more crowded as there is increasing public demand to use electric bicycles and scooters. Learn how parks and rec departments are addressing bike and pedestrian needs as well as emerging trends such as E-Scooters and E-Bikes.
  • Speakers: Check back soon!
  • Date/Time: Thursday, December 5, 2019; 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm

The 2019 MACo Winter Conference, “Building for the Future,” will be held on December 4-6, 2019, at the Hyatt Regency Chesapeake Bay Hotel in Cambridge, Maryland.

Learn more about MACo’s Winter Conference:
– Registration Brochure
– Online Attendee Registration
– Hotel Rates
– Exhibitor Brochure
– Online Exhibitor Registration
– Sponsorship Brochure
– See what it’s like!
• Last Winter Conference Photo Recap (see what it’s like!)
• Winter #MACoCon on Twitter