9/4/25 SCCRTC P1 - Consent Agenda Summary
Action Items
Speaker A Move motion to amend subsidy policy Move to amend the consent agenda to include direction that future subsidies only support e-bikes pedal assisted up to 20 mph, excluding faster models.
Speaker C Second motion to amend subsidy policy Second the motion to limit subsidies to e-bikes with max 20 mph pedal assist, pending public input.
Concerns Raised
- Commissioner Schiffrin expressed concern about subsidizing e-bikes that can go 28 mph, which he thinks is "too fast."
- Safety issues with faster e-bikes, especially involving children and teenagers, have increased significantly, with accidents up 300% in two years.
Policy Proposal
- Recommendation to change subsidy policy to only support e-bikes that pedal assist up to 20 mph.
- No subsidies for e-bikes exceeding 20 mph or with throttles.
State Pilot Influence
- Marin County state pilot program is being closely followed due to safety complaints.
- Current state law prohibits local action until pilot concludes.
Commission Discussion
- Staff confirmed it is feasible to limit subsidies without passing new laws, as subsidy program is discretionary.
- Commissioners agreed to bring the proposal to the public for input before making a motion.
- Motion to amend consent agenda with new subsidy direction was moved and seconded.
