New e-bike rules are approved

By Daniella Moreau/Orange County Tribune

New regulations aimed at curbing problems with the rising number of electric bikes was approved on first reading by the Huntington Beach City Council on Tuesday night.

The vote was 6-0 with Councilmember Pat Burns absent. The updated ordinance comes after finding that the newer models of electric bikes did not comply with the existing vehicle codes. The new law closes loopholes by adding definitions of different types of electric bicycles and a section on unsafe riding.

This ordinance would allow authorities to give civil and criminal tickets. Also, the new regulation would allow law enforcement to issue California Vehicle code violations on private property with public access.

Some council members expressed concern over criminal citations involving kids.

“We need to curb the e-bike problem that we have here in town, but it raises my hairs when you say a criminal citation,” said Mayor Tony Strickland.

A civil ticket does not go on someone’s record, driving record, or criminal history. The first offense of a civil citation fine is $125, the second offense within six months is $250, and the highest fine is $600.

Councilmember Rhonda Bolton suggested an emergency ordinance that would allow it to go into effect immediately once approved rather than 30 days.

The second reading and findings for an emergency ordinance will take place at the next council meeting.

The next regularly scheduled meeting of the council is set for Tuesday, Oct. 3.