Hawaii Senate discusses electric mobility rebate program and rising e-bike injuries

The HSG/TRN Joint Public Hearing held on March 11, 2025, focused on significant legislative measures impacting transportation and public safety in Hawaii. Key discussions centered around two bills: SB 21 and SB 1117.

SB 21 received strong support from various stakeholders, including the Hawaii Harbors Users Group. The bill aims to align with previous legislative efforts from 2021, although specific details on its provisions were not elaborated during the hearing.

The more detailed discussion revolved around SB 1117, which proposes a comprehensive overhaul of the existing electric bicycle and moped rebate program. This bill seeks to expand eligibility for rebates, lowering the age requirement for electric bicycle riders from 16 to 15 years. It also introduces regulations for the operation of electric bicycles on public sidewalks and establishes definitions for electric motorcycles. Notably, the bill mandates that operators of electric motorcycles carry insurance, aligning them with existing motorcycle laws.

Support for SB 1117 came from multiple organizations, including the Department of Transportation, the Office of Climate Change, Sustainability, and Resilience, and the Hawaii Bicycling League. However, the hearing also highlighted serious concerns regarding the rising number of pediatric injuries associated with electric bicycles. Alyssa Lo, the trauma program manager at Kapiolani Medical Center for Women and Children, reported a troubling increase in injuries among children, with cases more than doubling between 2022 and 2023. She emphasized the devastating consequences of these injuries, which have led to permanent disabilities and fatalities.

The hearing concluded without further questions from members, indicating a potential move towards advancing these legislative measures. The discussions underscored the need for careful consideration of safety regulations as electric mobility options become more prevalent in Hawaii.