YAPHANK, NY – April 23, 2026
New Suffolk County legislation aimed at improving safety around e-bike and e-scooter use is now being enforced, following growing concerns from residents, law enforcement, and local officials about the rise in serious accidents, particularly involving younger riders.
At a press conference held today by Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine alongside Suffolk County Police Commissioner Frank Catalina and local legislators, officials outlined how the new law will be implemented and enforced.
Romaine underscored the urgency of the issue, stating, “There’s nothing safe about e-bikes. They are inherently dangerous,” as he spoke about the need for stronger enforcement and public awareness under the new law, which was enacted on December 30, 2025.
The legislation was introduced by Legislator Stephanie Bontempi, representing the Town of Huntington’s 17th District, with Legislator Rebecca Sanin (16th District) standing alongside her. The measure was unanimously passed by the Suffolk County Legislature and formally adopted as Local Law No. 6-2026.
According to Commissioner Catalina, the department spent the first few months after passage focusing on education during stops, with enforcement actions beginning in March.
We’ve been covering a number of incidents involving e-bikes in recent months, and the concern from residents has been consistent. These are not toys, and the risks are real.
Enforcement Now Underway
Since March 1, Suffolk County Police Highway Patrol alone has already issued 53 tickets for riding e-bikes and scooters on sidewalks, 37 tickets for operating on roads with speed limits over 30 miles per hour, and six additional violations for other offenses.
The numbers reflect a clear shift from education to enforcement as warmer weather approaches and usage increases.
At today’s press conference, officials also showed video of a recent traffic stop involving a man riding an e-scooter on the shoulder of the Long Island Expressway. Suffolk County Police Highway Officers handled the situation with professionalism, first educating the rider, issuing a summons, and then escorting him safely off the highway.
What’s Changing
The new law adds expanded regulations on how e-bikes and e-scooters can be used across Suffolk County, with a focus on safety, accountability, and enforcement.
Under the law, riders under the age of 16 are not permitted to operate these devices. That age aligns with when teens can begin the process of obtaining a learner’s permit and are expected to understand the rules of the road.
Helmets are now required for all riders, regardless of age, and e-bikes and scooters are not permitted on sidewalks. They are also restricted from roadways with speed limits over 30 miles per hour.
The County Legislature made clear in the law itself that these devices have become a serious public safety concern, particularly for younger riders who may not fully understand traffic laws or the risks involved.
Why Now
“There has been a noticeable increase in incidents involving e-bikes across the county,” said Legislator Rebecca Sanin. “Just last week in my district, a teenager was critically injured at the intersection of Broadway and Little Plains Road in Greenlawn. Nearly every week, similar incidents are reported countywide.”
Legislator Stephanie Bontempi said the legislation was driven directly by residents raising concerns and sharing their experiences.
“My office and those of my colleagues were contacted about the need to do something about the increase in e-bike accidents, and residents showed up at the Legislature to share stories of tragic losses caused by e-bikes,” she said. “The legislation was really a result of resident requests and input.”
She added that the issue extends beyond riders themselves.
“What is important to note is that the legislation does not only address the safety of the e-bike rider, but also the safety of pedestrians and that of motorists.”
What the New Law Actually Does
The law goes further than general guidelines and clearly defines what is and is not allowed.
Reckless operation is now specifically outlined. That includes weaving in and out of traffic, zig-zagging around moving vehicles, riding in a way that puts pedestrians or drivers at risk, performing tricks in active roadways or parking lots, and failing to follow basic traffic safety rules. Riding under the influence of alcohol or drugs is also prohibited, using the same standards applied to motor vehicles.
There are real consequences attached. Violations can result in fines, and repeat offenses can escalate to misdemeanor charges with significantly higher penalties. Police also have the authority to seize and impound e-bikes or scooters in certain situations.
Bontempi noted that previous laws did not go far enough.
“The old laws were vague and didn’t account for modern e-bikes,” she said. “They also imposed much lower fines and law enforcement officers could not impound a rider’s bike, which they can do now if the rider is under 16 or riding recklessly.”
For families, one of the most important pieces is this. If a minor violates the law, parents or legal guardians can be held financially responsible. That includes paying fines and covering any damage caused. There is no exception based on lack of awareness. The responsibility still applies.
What Families Should Know
Bontempi emphasized that the law comes with clear expectations for families.
“If your child is less than 16 years old, they cannot ride an e-bike on any public road or County park. If they do and they get caught, the bike will be impounded by law enforcement, and the parent or guardian will be responsible to pay the ensuing fines,” she said.
She added that both riders and passengers are required to wear helmets, and that e-bikes are not permitted to exceed 20 miles per hour.
“I urge parents and riders to educate themselves on the new laws. We passed them to ensure that riders, pedestrians, and motorists reach their destination as safely as possible. Hopefully, by everyone familiarizing themselves with and abiding by the new legislation, we can avoid further tragic accidents in our town and in the rest of Suffolk County.”
Sanin also pointed to the importance of awareness and education.
“Parents considering the purchase of an e-bike should take the time to thoroughly research these devices and ensure that both they and their children understand proper safety practices, legal requirements, and the risks associated with their use.”
What Police Are Seeing
At the April Suffolk County Police Department 2nd Precinct Community Meeting, Inspector Kevin Rivera spoke directly about what officers have been seeing locally.
“Last summer, just countywide, there were so many serious physical injuries and even fatalities with these e-bikes,” Rivera said. “These things are so fast right now. It seems like every kid wants one. Some don’t wear helmets, they don’t realize how dangerous they are. And I think a lot of parents don’t realize it.”
Behind the Legislation
The legislation was a fully bipartisan effort, reflecting shared concerns across the County Legislature.
There was some discussion around how the law would apply in areas like Fire Island, where e-bikes are more commonly used due to limited roadway infrastructure. Adjustments were made to account for those conditions while maintaining the overall safety intent.
What Could Be Coming Next
At the state level, additional legislation is already being discussed that could go even further.
A proposal known as Priscilla’s Law, named after a victim of a 2023 fatal crash involving an e-bike, would require e-bikes and e-scooters to be registered and display visible license plates. The goal is to make riders identifiable in cases of reckless driving, traffic violations, or hit-and-run incidents.
While it has not yet been adopted statewide, it reflects the same concerns being raised locally around safety and accountability. It’s a sign that the conversation around e-bike safety is far from over.
Photography and Videography by Jennifer Duclay.
