HF 74 (LSB 1849YH (2) 91)

HOUSE FILE 74

BY  GUSTOFF

A BILL FOR

An Act relating to the maximum power output for low-speed electric bicycles and pedestrian conveyances powered by an electric motor.
BE IT ENACTED BY THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF IOWA:

    Section 1.  Section 321.1, subsection 36A, unnumbered paragraph 1, Code 2025, is amended to read as follows:
   “Low-speed electric bicycle” means a device having equipped with a saddle or seat for the use of a rider, two or three wheels, equipped with fully operable pedals, and an electric motor of less than that produces not more than seven hundred fifty watts that meets, and is classified in accordance with the following requirements of one of the following classes:
    Sec. 2.  Section 321.1, subsection 51A, Code 2025, is amended to read as follows:
   51A.  “Pedestrian conveyance” means any human-powered device by which a pedestrian may move other than by walking or by which a pedestrian may move another person, including but not limited to a wheelchair, stroller, skateboard, scooter, or other similar device. “Pedestrian conveyance” also includes an electric personal assistive mobility device and any other device used to move a person sitting or standing on the device regardless of whether the device is powered by an electric motor, so long as the electric motor produces less not more than seven hundred fifty watts. “Pedestrian conveyance” does not include a bicycle.
EXPLANATION
The inclusion of this explanation does not constitute agreement with
the explanation’s substance by the members of the general assembly.
   This bill relates to the authorized maximum power produced by electric motors on low-speed electric bicycles and pedestrian conveyances. Current law limits the output of such electric motors to less than 750 watts. The bill instead authorizes such electric motors to produce not more than 750 watts. If an electric motor produces more than 750 watts and is attached to what would otherwise be considered a low-speed electric bicycle or personal conveyance, the provisions of Code chapter 321 (motor vehicles and law of the road) relating to vehicles, motor vehicles, automobiles, cars, motorcycles, and motorized bicycles are applicable to such vehicles.