Illinois Governor signs micromobility regulation law

Governor J. B. Pritzker has signed Senate Bill 3484 into law, establishing statewide regulations for micromobility devices including e-bikes, e-scooters, electric unicycles, and electric skateboards. The law, which takes effect on January 1, aims to standardize rules across Illinois and replace a patchwork of inconsistent local ordinances.

The legislation introduces age requirements and speed limits to address rising injury rates, particularly among children. Riders of Class 1 and Class 2 e-bikes (up to 20 mph) must be at least 15 years old, while Class 3 e-bike users and e-scooter riders must be at least 16. E-scooters are subject to a 15 mph speed cap.

Devices capable of exceeding 28 mph will be classified as motor vehicles. Operators of these high-speed devices must possess a driver’s license, carry insurance, and register the vehicle with the state. They will also be subject to state drunken driving laws and are prohibited from using bike paths. The law seeks to improve community safety as high-powered micromobility technology becomes increasingly common on public roads and sidewalks.