Bicyclists are now permitted to operate electric-assisted bicycles on certain trails under legislation signed Monday by Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder.
"Michigan's trails and natural resources bring together Michiganders and visitors from around the world, and these bills help bicyclists experience the beauty of Pure Michigan in a new, exciting way," Snyder said.
House Bills 4781-4782 and 4783, sponsored by state Reps. Holly Hughes and Klint Kesto, respectively, allow the operation of specific classifications of electric-assisted bicycles on highways open to use by a bicycle and on a paved trail. HB 4781 establishes criteria for electric bicycle classifications and directs which type of electric bicycles can be operated on a trail under the supervision of the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. HB 4782 adds a section to the Michigan Vehicle Code to establish definitions, classifications and equipment/manufacturer requirements for electric bicycles. HB 4783 amends the Insurance Code to specify that an electric bicycle is not a motor vehicle and therefore is exempt from no-fault insurance requirements. The measures are now Public Acts 138-140 of 2017.
Snyder also signed two additional bills:
- House Bill 4305, sponsored by state Rep. Bronna Kahle, incorporates new regulatory changes made by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission to the Michigan Invests Locally Exemption (MILE) Act. Changes include lessening requirements for business entities to establish residency in Michigan for the purposes of qualifying for intrastate offering exemptions and by lowering restrictions on resale of securities purchased under MILE. It is now Public Act 141 of 2017.
- HB 4311, sponsored by state Rep. Hank Vaupel, amends the Public Health Code to allow surrendering parents' names to be excluded from the birth certificates of infants surrendered under the Safe Delivery of Newborns Law. The bill helps ensure a safe, legal and anonymous surrender that is reflected in birth reporting practices. It is now PA 142 of 2017.
For additional information on this and other legislation, visit www.legislature.mi.gov.
Published: Wed, Nov 01, 2017
