New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Senate Bill S08739

Introduced
1/8/26  

Caption

Requires entities which operate a system of shared electric bicycles or scooters to impose penalties for failure of an operator or borrower to return a shared electric scooter or bicycle to a proper location.

Impact

Should this bill be enacted, it would create a clearer framework for the operation of shared electric scooters and bicycles across New York State. By imposing penalties for failing to return these vehicles to the proper locations, the legislation aims to enhance accountability among users and ensure that public spaces are well-maintained and accessible. This measure could potentially reduce instances of abandoned scooters and bikes that clutter sidewalks and other public areas, leading to improved safety and convenience for residents and pedestrians.

Summary

Bill S08739, introduced by Senator Sepulveda, aims to amend the General Business Law regarding shared electric bicycles and scooters. The primary objective of this proposal is to mandate that operators of these shared systems impose monetary penalties on users who fail to return the devices to designated locations. This initiative arises from the growing use of shared mobility solutions and the concerns surrounding the management and regulation of such services within urban environments.

Contention

While the bill primarily seeks to regulate the shared mobility sector, it does raise some points of contention among stakeholders. Supporters argue that the penalties are necessary to maintain order in urban settings, where misplaced scooters and bikes can pose accessibility issues. Critics, however, may express concerns regarding the proportionality of such penalties, questioning whether they could deter users from participating in shared mobility programs altogether. It also raises discussions about ensuring that the penalties do not disproportionately affect vulnerable populations who rely on these modes of transport.

Companion Bills

NY A09193

Same As Requires entities which operate a system of shared electric bicycles or scooters to impose penalties for failure of an operator or borrower to return a shared electric scooter or bicycle to a proper location.

Previously Filed As

NY A09193

Requires entities which operate a system of shared electric bicycles or scooters to impose penalties for failure of an operator or borrower to return a shared electric scooter or bicycle to a proper location.

NY S09361

Requires operators of bicycles with electric assist, electric scooters, and motor-driven cycles to wear protective head gear regardless of age.

NY A09213

Requires operators of bicycles with electric assist, electric scooters, and motor-driven cycles to wear protective head gear regardless of age.

NY A10227

Requires every sale of a bicycle with electric assist or electric scooter to include a helmet suitable for use while operating such bicycle or scooter.

NY S10013

Requires every sale of a bicycle with electric assist or electric scooter to include a helmet suitable for use while operating such bicycle or scooter.

NY A10230

Requires bicycles with electric assist and electric scooters to be registered with the department of motor vehicles and have a license plate affixed to such bicycle with electric assist or electric scooter.

NY S10015

Requires bicycles with electric assist and electric scooters to be registered with the department of motor vehicles and have a license plate affixed to such bicycle with electric assist or electric scooter.

NY HB06862

An Act Concerning Electric Scooters, Electric Bicycles And Motor-driven Cycles.

NY S10054

Requires all persons in a city having a population of one million or more operating a bicycle, electric bicycle or electric scooter to wear a helmet; imposes a civil penalty for violation of such requirement.

NY SB00406

An Act Concerning The Display Of Lighted Lamps On Bicycles, Electric Bicycles And Electric Scooters.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.