Subject:
Title
Shared Mobility Devices Legislation
Body
BACKGROUND SUMMARY:
Shared Mobility Devices (SMDs) are bikes, e-bikes, and scooters owned by private companies and rented to the public via smartphone apps. They are intended for short trips and are parked in public spaces as "dockless" vehicles - typically self-locking. Private companies began renting dockless bikes to the public in DC in 2017, then in northern Virginia starting in Arlington and Alexandria. Recently most companies have transitioned to e-scooters.
OVERVIEW:
When first introduced in Virginia, SMDs operated unregulated due to absence of specific language in the state code. Local jurisdictions responded in various ways:
* Arlington and Alexandria allowed them and quickly adopted pilot programs.
* Norfolk impounded scooters initially and is now issuing an RFP for a pilot program.
* Richmond impounded the scooters and has now adopted a permit program.
The General Assembly has passed legislation, effective July 1, 2019, that gives localities the ability to regulate SMDs. Localities cannot ban these devices, but may regulate them:
? 46.2-1315. Powers of localities to regulate use of motorized skateboards or scooters, bicycles, or electric power-assisted bicycles for hire.
Any county, city, town, or political subdivision may (i) by ordinance regulate or (ii) by any governing body action or administrative action establish a demonstration project or pilot program regulating the operation of motorized skateboards or scooters, bicycles, or electric power-assisted bicycles for hire, provided that such regulation or other governing body or administrative action is consistent with this title. Such ordinance or other governing body or administrative action may require persons offering motorized skateboards or scooters, bicycles, or electric power-assisted bicycles for hire to be licensed, provided that on or after January 1, 2020, in the absence of any licensing ordinance, regulation, or oth...
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