New York City Council committee hears testimony about license plates for e-vehicles
NEW YORK (WABC) -- Electric bikes and scooters would require registration with the city Department of Transportation and to display visible identification numbers, like a license plate, under legislation being discussed before a City Council committee Wednesday.
Intro 606, also known as Priscilla's Law, is named after Priscilla Loke, a 69-year-old woman who was struck and killed by an e-bike in Chinatown in 2023.
Many advocates support the legislation, saying it would create accountability for bike riders and businesses whose employees frequently use the sidewalk and ignore bike lanes.
Proponents say the legislation would hold reckless riders accountable.
"Ninety-four of our 98 victims were hit and run, it's patently unfair that victims should be stuck with the consequence and the riders that cause the grievous injuries and death have no consequence whatsoever," said Andrew Fine with NYC E-Vehicle Safety Alliance.
However, the bill was not endorsed by the DOT commissioner.
"We support the intent of this bill, but we don't support this bill as the council member is introducing it today, we are more than happy to work with the Chair, the Speaker and all of you in a comprehensive task force," said NYC DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez.
But there's no shortage of people who do want the measure passed and they rallied outside City Hall before the hearing.
"Today is about accountability. Priscilla Loke was killed. There is never any accountability. Riders flee 90% of the time. E-bike riders are getting killed too," said Janet Schroeder with NYC E-Vehicle Safety Alliance.
Opponents of the proposed bill say the licensing of e-bikes would lead to a costly, bureaucratic nightmare.
But City Council member Robert Holden, who sponsored the legislation, says the mayor supports his bill, along with a majority of his Council colleagues.
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