Press Release: Gov. Evers Signs Electric Scooter Bill, Expanding Transportation Options and Attracting Startup Companies to Wisconsin

MILWAUKEE — Gov. Tony Evers today signed Senate Bill 152, now 2019 Wisconsin Act 11. Senate Bill 152 expands transportation options and gives municipalities the ability to manage the right balance of safety and access of the right of way for all electric scooter users.

"We should be setting the floor, not the ceiling, for local governments in Wisconsin," said Gov. Evers. "Electric scooters improve access to low-cost transportation options and can serve as a first or last-mile solution to residents and visitors in communities throughout our state. By providing clarity to a rapidly-growing industry, this bill empowers local governments to make the decisions that best fit their area."

The bipartisan legislation, introduced by Sen. Dale Kooyenga and Rep. Mike Kuglitsch, determines that:

• Electric scooters are exempt from vehicle registration by the Department of Transportation;
• Operators of electric scooters must observe many of the rules of the road;
• Electric scooters may be operated on most roadways, sidewalks, bicycle lanes, and bicycle ways, however, a local highway authority may by ordinance regulate the rental and operation of electric scooters; and
• Electric scooters must satisfy the same equipment requirements as Electric Personal Assistive Mobility Devices (EPAMDs), including lighting and brake requirements.