NJ Governor Phil Murphy signs new e-bike safety legislation after a number of dangerous crashes

TRENTON, N.J. (WPVI) -- New Jersey has enacted its first update to electric bicycle regulations in six years, a move lawmakers say is aimed at improving safety after a series of serious and fatal crashes across the state.

Governor Phil Murphy signed the new safety bill into law on Monday, on his last day in office.

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The updated regulations apply to all electric bicycles. Class 1 and Class 2 e-bikes can reach speeds of up to 20 miles per hour, while Class 3 models - treated as motorized bicycles - can reach a maximum of 28 miles per hour.

Owners must hold a driver's license or be at least 15 years old with a motorized bicycle license, and all e-bikes must be registered and insured.

"We are in a new era of e-bike use that requires updated safety standards to help prevent accidents, injuries, and fatalities. Requiring registration and licensing will improve their safe use, and having them insured will protect those injured in accidents," said Senate President Nick Scutari, who co-sponsored the bill.

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"The law creates clear rules for everybody," Mount Laurel Police Chief Tim Hudnall said.

Mount Laurel has seen an increase in e-bike crashes, including a deadly hit-and-run on Route 73 in December. Hudnall said he believes the new requirements will improve safety for cyclists, drivers and pedestrians.

"For bikers, it establishes accountability, promotes safer operation and helps ensure riders understand traffic laws that apply to them. For motorists, it provides clarity, consistency when sharing the road with e-bikes," he said.

The law also directs drivers to use caution around e-bikes, including slowing down and giving riders more space.

Some residents support the changes.

"I like it. It's a little scary sometimes, and it's a lot of kids, so it's nice to see they have to be a little more protected," said Sara Dunlop of Delanco.

But bike advocates say the law sweeps too broadly.

John Boyle, research director for the Bicycle Coalition of Greater Philadelphia and a resident of Edgewater Park, said lawmakers moved too quickly.

"It's not fair," Boyle said. "Most Class 1 and Class 2 bikes, which have a top speed of 20 mph, are not much heavier or faster than standard bikes."

Boyle argued that grouping low-speed e-bikes with Class 3 models creates restrictions and increases costs without addressing the risks posed by higher-speed bikes.

"We're already talking to members of the Assembly and Senate to come up with a reform bill to fix these errors, and hopefully this law will not cause too much damage because we can make really good legislation," he said.

Hudnall said enforcement in Mount Laurel will initially focus on safety and education.

Violations carry a $50 fine.