Transportation Alternatives’ Statement on Inclusion of E-Bike/E-Scooter Legalization in Governor Cuomo’s Proposed 2020/21 Budget

Statement of Transportation Alternatives Executive Director Danny Harris on Governor Cuomo’s proposed budget, which includes provisions to legalize e-bikes and e-scooters in New York State:

“Transportation Alternatives applauds Governor Cuomo for including provisions to legalize e-bikes and e-scooters in his proposed state budget. Once approved, this legislation will pave the way for safe, sustainable transportation alternatives. With e-bikes and e-scooters, more New Yorkers can access opportunity while helping to address the ills associated with traffic congestion in the five boroughs and beyond. 

The push to legalize e-bikes and e-scooters has enjoyed the support of a broad coalition of stakeholders, from immigration advocates and local lawmakers to environmental justice activists and food delivery workers.

In New York City, working cyclists who rely on e-bikes to complete their rounds have been targeted and harassed. We expect Mayor de Blasio and the NYPD to end their misguided e-bike crackdown once this budget is approved.

We thank Governor Cuomo, along with State Senator Jessica Ramos and Assembly Member Nily Rozic who have led on this issue, for this important step to bring justice for working cyclists and provide safe and sustainable transportation alternatives for New Yorkers.”