S.970

North Carolina S970 clarifies the definition of electric assisted bicycles and allows local governments to regulate their use.

North Carolina S970 amends the state's General Statutes to clarify the definition of electric assisted bicycles and authorize local governments to regulate their use. The bill defines an electric assisted bicycle as a two or three-wheeled bicycle equipped with a motor of no more than 750 watts and a maximum speed of 20 miles per hour. It allows cities to restrict the use of these bicycles on multiuse paths, sidewalks, or trails, establish speed limits on greenways or shared-use paths, and require helmets for riders under 18. Counties can also regulate the use of these bicycles.