Bulgarian Ombudsman proposes stricter electric scooter regulations

Bulgarian Ombudsman Velislava Delcheva has called for stricter regulations regarding electric scooters following reports that nearly 500 children have been injured in related incidents. Delcheva noted that current legislation is being widely ignored, with minors under the age of 16 operating vehicles, often riding in groups without helmets.

To address the issue, the Ombudsman proposed several measures, including mandatory operating licenses, the full registration of all electric scooters, and financial sanctions for parents who allow minors to violate safety rules. Delcheva stated that a total ban on these vehicles remains a possibility if the rising number of accidents is not brought under control.

In addition to scooter safety, Delcheva raised concerns regarding rising consumer credit costs and a 30% increase in complaints related to water supply issues across several Bulgarian regions, including Dobrich, Pleven, and Lovech, citing aging infrastructure as a primary cause.