New Philadelphia officials want to keep e-scooters and -bikes off sidewalks, out of parks and off streets where the speed limit is above 25 miles per hour.
City Council will vote on proposed legislation at an upcoming meeting after the city’s safety, healthy and service committee OK’d it this week.
Councilman Tom Simmelink says his own close calls prompted his support for more restrictions.
The legislation also includes a parental responsibility component where the parent could end up in court if their child is a repeat offender.
In addition to the bans on sidewalks, parks and streets where the speed limit is over 25, the legislation prohibits passengers on e-scooters and e-bikes.
It does not regulate helmet-wearing. Officials decided to leave that up to parents and state laws. Meanwhile, Ohio lawmakers are taking a closer look with a bill having been introduced in the Ohio House and is awaiting its first hearing. Newark State Representative Kevin Miller, a sponsor of the bill, says the measure would expand safety information for both riders and drivers – and this could serve as a good starting point.
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