Following recent tragedies involving the e-bikes in the state, several legislators say they will be introducing a bill mandating safety training.

The lawmakers, including State Senator Vince Polistina, Assemblywoman Claire Swift and Assemblyman Don Guardian, all Republicans who represent the 2nd legislative district, said their bill will create a safety course for Class I and II e-bikes.

Their announcement follows the death of a 14-year-old child who was killed after being struck by a car while riding his e-bike.

“There are no other motorized vehicles that you can legally operate on land or on our waterways that do not require some type of certification or licensing,” explained Assemblywoman Claire Swift, a former New Jersey Deputy Attorney General. “We do this to ensure responsible operation and keep everyone safe on the roads. We need to provide the same for our e-bikers.”

In Lakewood, there have been numerous accidents involving e-bikes and other motorized vehicles.

According to the New Jersey Department of Transportation, electric bike riders must follow all the state’s traffic laws. Helmets are also required if the rider is 17 years old or younger.

This bill is separate from other e-bike legislation already moving through the Legislature, including one which would require them to be registered with the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) and to be insured.