TRENTON, NJ – Governor Phil Murphy has signed into law one of the toughest e-bike regulation measures in the country, aiming to address a surge in accidents and fatalities linked to the growing use of electric bicycles across New Jersey.
The legislation, S4834/A6235, sponsored by Senate President Nick Scutari, overhauls the state’s rules governing electric bicycles by expanding licensing, registration, and insurance requirements. It also updates the legal definition of motorized bicycles to include all forms of e-bikes — from pedal-assist models to those capable of full electric propulsion.
The move follows a series of deadly crashes involving e-bike riders, including two fatal incidents in Scotch Plains and Orange. Officials say the law is intended to bring order to a rapidly changing transportation landscape and prevent further tragedies.
“It is clear that we are in an age of increasing e-bike use that requires us to take action and update regulations that help prevent tragedies from occurring,” Governor Murphy said. “Making our roads safer for all users has been a key priority for my Administration.”
Under the new law, e-bike owners and operators must obtain motorized bicycle licenses, register their bikes, and carry insurance. Riders must be at least 17 years old with a valid driver’s license or 15 with a motorized bicycle license. Motor vehicles are also now required to use caution when approaching e-bikes on the road, slowing down or changing lanes to pass safely.
Senate President Scutari said the measure is a response to the “dramatic increase” in e-bike use and related dangers. “They are faster, more powerful, and far more prevalent,” Scutari said. “Their popularity with young people, coupled with their inexperience as operators, puts them at greater risk. Requiring registration and licensing will improve their safe use and having them insured will protect those injured in accidents.”
Senator Paul Moriarty, a co-sponsor, emphasized that e-bikes “pose many more dangers on the road” than traditional bicycles and need to be regulated accordingly. Assemblyman James Kennedy added that if an e-bike can “go as fast as a small motorcycle,” it should be treated with equal care and oversight.
Assemblyman Sterley Stanley said the law sets essential rules to help protect both riders and the public, noting that the legislation reflects the state’s duty “to ensure all vehicles operate in a manner free of unnecessary risk.”
Local leaders have also praised the move. Scotch Plains Mayor Josh Losardo, whose community experienced a fatal e-bike crash last year, said the law directly addresses an urgent public safety need. “This issue is not theoretical for us,” he said. “This law helps ensure our roads are safer for everyone using them.”
Union County Commissioner Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded called the measure a “critical step” in ensuring that regulations keep pace with innovation, saying it strikes a balance between “safety, accountability, and common sense.”
New Jersey’s updated e-bike law is the first significant reform to the state’s regulations in six years and positions the state among the strictest in the nation when it comes to e-bike safety standards.
Governor Murphy signs new e-bike law requiring licensing, registration, and insurance amid a statewide rise in accidents.
