SENATE BILL REPORT
HB 1884
This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent. |
As of March 23, 2015
Title: An act relating to the definition of a one-wheeled self-balancing device.
Brief Description: Expanding the definition of an electric personal assistive mobility device to include a one-wheeled self-balancing device.
Sponsors: Representatives Vick, Bergquist, Hayes, Riccelli, Orcutt, Wilson and Pike.
Brief History: Passed House: 3/09/15, 96-1.
Committee Activity: Transportation: 3/18/15.
SENATE COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORTATION |
Staff: Kim Johnson (786-7472)
Background: An electric personal assistive mobility device (EPAMD) is defined as a self-balancing device, with two wheels not in tandem, which is designed to transport one person by electric power. The power of an EPAMD is limited to 750 watts, and the maximum speed is limited to 20 miles per hour. EPAMDs are not motor vehicles, and they are excluded from the definition of a motorcycle.
A driver's license is not required to operate an EPAMD. Additionally, an EPAMD may not be operated on a fully controlled limited access highway, but they may be operated on a sidewalk. A municipality may restrict the use of an EPAMD in locations with congested pedestrian and non-motorized traffic. Municipalities may not, however, restrict the speed of an EPAMD in the entire community or in areas in which there is infrequent pedestrian traffic. Finally, the user of an EPAMD is classified as a vulnerable user of a public way.
Summary of Bill: The definition of an EPAMD is expanded to include a self-balancing device with one wheel that is designed to transport one person. The power of such devices is limited to 2000 watts, and their maximum speed is limited to 20 miles per hour.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Available.
Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.
Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.
Staff Summary of Public Testimony: PRO: This statute was written for the Segway device. Technology has outpaced the statute. I have two companies in Camas that manufacture these devices. They just take people from point A to point B. These devices are not defined in statute and local governments don’t know how to treat them. By putting them into statute we highlight this device.
All these devices all go about 10 miles per hour. It is nearly walking. It is completely intuitive. We have never heard of anyone injuring a single bystander.
Persons Testifying: PRO: Representative Vick, prime sponsor; Michael Chacon, Inventist, Solowheel.
Persons Signed in to Testify But Not Testifying: No one.