Mayor Bloomberg Signs Legislation Increasing Enforcement Of Motorized Scooters

May 15, 2013

“The final two bills before me today increase our ability to enforce the City’s prohibitions against selling, possessing and operating motorized scooters, including e-bikes, ultimately making the streets of New York City safer.

“Introductory Number 1026-A is sponsored by Council Members Garodnick, Chin, Comrie, Gennaro, Gentile, Gonzalez, James, Koo, Mark-Viverito, Nelson, Van Bramer, Rodriguez, Mealy, Greenfield, Jackson and Ulrich.  This bill closes a loophole which made the definition of “motorized scooter” dependent upon how fast the scooter was able to go, making it virtually impossible for enforcement personnel to determine whether a vehicle actually came within the scope of the law.  Although it is already illegal to operate these vehicles under State law since they are unregistered and uninsured motor vehicles, the passage of this legislation ensures that the strict penalties available under local law can be imposed and that law enforcement has more options to protect New Yorkers from the danger of illegal motorized scooters on our streets.

“Introductory Number 1030-A is sponsored by Council Members Lappin, Chin, Van Bramer, Rodriguez, Mealy, Gennaro, Jackson and Ulrich.  This bill prohibits businesses that use bicycles for commercial purposes from possessing motorized scooters or permitting their employees to use them on behalf of the business.  Business owners will now be held accountable for employees who violate the law by operating motorized scooters to make deliveries.

“I would like to thank Police Commissioner Ray Kelly and Department of Transportation Commissioner Janette Sadik-Khan, along with my Office of City Legislative Affairs for their work on these bills.  I would also like to thank the City Council for approving this legislation.”