SB73 Alabama 2023 Session

Updated Feb 22, 2026

Summary

Primary Sponsor: Gerald H. AllenSenator
Republican
Session: Regular Session 2023
Title: Relating to electric bicycles; to amend Section 32-5A-267, Code of Alabama 1975, to further provide minimum age requirements for the operation of certain electric bicycles; and to require the use of helmets during the operation of electric bicycles; and in connection therewith would have as its purpose or effect the requirement of a new or increased expenditure of local funds within the meaning of Section 111.05 of the Constitution of Alabama of 2022.
Summary: SB73 tightens age limits for operating electric bicycles, requires helmet use for all riders, and adds labeling and safety requirements, with local governments allowed to regulate on bike paths.
What This Bill Does
It raises minimum ages for riding different classes of electric bicycles: under 14 may not operate Class 1 or Class 2, and under 16 may not operate Class 3. It requires all operators and passengers of any class to wear a helmet. It adds labeling and safety rules, including permanent labels with classification, top speed, and motor wattage, a speedometer for Class 3, and restrictions on tampering. It treats electric bikes as bicycles, allows riding where bicycles are allowed, and lets local governments regulate on paths for safety, while noting the bill is exempt from certain local-funding requirements.

Who It Affects
Youth riders: under 14 cannot operate Class 1/2; 14–15 may operate Class 1/2 but not Class 3; under 16 cannot operate Class 3; passengers on Class 3 are allowed if the bike is designed to carry passengers.
All e-bike riders, manufacturers/distributors, and local governments: anyone operating a Class 1–3 must wear a helmet; manufacturers/distributors must place permanent classification labels on bikes; local governments may restrict certain classes on paths to enhance safety.

Key Provisions
Age rules: Class 1/2 cannot be operated by someone under 14; Class 3 cannot be operated by someone under 16; 14–15 may operate Class 1/2; passengers on Class 3 allowed if the bike is designed to carry passengers.
Helmet requirement: All operators and passengers of Class 1–3 must wear a properly fitted helmet meeting specified safety standards.
Speedometer: Class 3 electric bicycles must have a speedometer displaying speed in miles per hour.
Labeling and tampering: Manufacturers/distributors must attach a permanent label showing classification, top assisted speed, and motor wattage; tampering to change speed or engagement is prohibited unless the label is updated after modification.
Safety and equipment standards: Electric bicycles must meet U.S. CPSCs safety standards; the motor must disengage or stop propelling the bike when pedaling stops or brakes are applied.
Where they can be ridden and local control on paths: E-bikes may be ridden where bicycles are allowed (streets, roads, bike lanes, paths); counties/municipalities may prohibit Class 1/2 or Class 3 on paths for safety or legal compliance, with exemptions for certain non-motorized trails.
Effective date and funding note: The act becomes effective immediately after passage; it is exempt from certain local fund expenditure requirements under Section 111.05 because it defines a new or amended crime.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 22, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.