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Sponsor Statement for CS SS SB 100 (RLS)
Electric Personal Vehicles - Registration

An act relating to regulation and operation of electric personal motor vehicles and to vehicle registration

In the fall of 2001, a new clean fuel and quiet technological transportation device was unveiled to the nation. It is referred to as an Electric Personal Assistance Mobility Device. The intent of Senate Bill 100 is to define state and municipal regulation and operation of electric personal motor vehicles.

An Electric Personal Assistance Mobility Device is a self-balancing two non-tandem wheeled device that transport a single person with a no-emissions electric propulsion system. The maximum speed of this device is 15 miles or less. Its footprint is narrower than the average adult's shoulders and is no longer than a large shoe. When operated, the mobility device uses the same space as a pedestrian and takes up less space than a bicycle or other tandem-wheeled transportation. Because of its revolutionary dynamics, it can turn in place without impacting any nearby object. The device works seamlessly with the body's movements as the gyroscope and tilt sensors monitor the user's center of gravity 100 times a second. As a person leans slightly forward, the mobility device moves forward and such backwards.

As an electric wheelchair, this new personal assistance mobility device may provide increased and welcomed independence for both the elderly and the disabled, not to mention its many other uses. It was invented to act more in the capacity of a pedestrian rather than a motor vehicle and should therefore be regulated as such. In this light, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration ruled this device is not a motor vehicle and should not be under their jurisdiction.

To date, seventeen states have signed similar legislation into law, four states have bills awaiting Governor signature and the remaining twenty-nine states have bills in the legislative process.

I appreciate the committee's favorable consideration of this legislation. Thank you.

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