Both Lake Forest and Lake Bluff are preparing for new state regulations governing the use of electric bicycles, scooters, and other mobility devices.
At the end of the legislative session in June, Illinois lawmakers approved legislation aimed at improving safety for the increasingly popular devices while establishing clearer statewide standards for their use.
Under the laws, riders of e-motos and e-bikes capable of speeds greater than 28 mph would be required to obtain a driver’s license, title, registration and insurance. Those devices also would be prohibited from using sidewalks, bicycle lanes, and bike paths.
The bill also establishes age requirements for riders of low-speed devices while maintaining the current Class 1, 2 and 3 framework for low-speed electric bicycles.
The legislation was advocated by Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias, whose office said micromobility-related injuries and fatalities increased 300 percent nationwide between 2019 and 2022.
“This legislation brings clarity, accountability and common-sense protections to our roads, sidewalks, bike paths and bike lanes while ensuring Illinois keeps pace with rapidly evolving transportation technology,” Giannoulias said in a statement. “By passing this bill, we are helping prevent serious injuries, protecting pedestrians and riders, and creating uniform statewide standards that prioritize public safety.”
The legislation now heads to the desk of Governor JB Pritzker, who has yet to sign it.
“The Governor will carefully review everything that comes across his desk once received by the Illinois General Assembly and before signing,” a Pritzker spokeswoman wrote in an email.
If signed, the new law would take effect Jan. 1.
Lake Forest Police Chief John Burke said he supports the measure.
“It’s much clearer to follow the way they classified everything,” he said.
Burke said he is working with the city’s communications team on a social media campaign to inform residents about the upcoming state regulations.
In October 2023, the Lake Forest City Council approved an ordinance requiring riders of electronic mobility devices to walk them through the central business district. Violators can face penalties, including fines.
“It can be dangerous if you are walking out of a store onto the sidewalk and someone goes by at 20 mph,” Burke said. “That can create dangerous situations.”
In Lake Bluff, Police Chief Matt Smizinski said village officials are waiting to see whether Pritzker signs the bill.
“Should the bill be enacted into law, we will further consult with legal counsel to assess its implications and determine any necessary actions,” he said.
Current Lake Bluff regulations allow all three classes of e-bikes on roads in the central business district, but riders must walk them on sidewalks throughout the village. E-scooters face similar regulations, though they are permitted on sidewalks outside of downtown.
Electronic dirt bikes are prohibited throughout the village. E-motorcycles, like traditional motorcycles, are permitted, but riders must possess a state-issued license.
Daniel I. Dorfman is a freelance reporter for Pioneer Press.
