Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research | BILL ANALYSIS |
Transportation Committee |
HB 1277
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. |
Brief Description: Modifying the meaning of bicycles.
Sponsors: Representatives Shea, Irwin, Barkis, Orcutt, Young and Doglio.
Brief Summary of Bill |
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Hearing Date: 1/28/19
Staff: Beth Redfield (786-7140).
Background:
The definition of bicycles and electric-assisted bicycles includes specific wheel diameters. For three-wheelers, the diameter is more than 20 inches.
The definition of electric-assisted bicycle, adopted in 2018, limits the power output of an electric-assisted bicycle motor to no more than 750 watts. This is consistent with the federal definition used by the Consumer Product Safety Commission for purposes of regulating manufacturer compliance with product and safety standards.
The definition adopted in 2018 also provided a three-tier classification of electric-assisted bicycles, two of the tiers limited to a top speed of 20 miles per hour and the third tier limited to a top speed of 28 miles per hour.
Summary of Bill:
The definition of bicycle is changed so that the wheel diameter for three-wheeled bicycles and electric-assisted bicycles may be 20 inches or more.
The definition of electric-assisted bicycle is changed to delete the limitation of power output of an electric-assisted bicycle's motor. No changes are made to the speed limitations of electric-assisted bicycles.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Not requested.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.