Overview
- Illinois lawmakers approved the bill on Thursday and sent it to Gov. JB Pritzker for his signature with an effective date of Jan. 1, 2027 if he signs or allows it to take effect.
- The law formally adopts the three-class e‑bike system by defining Class 1 and Class 2 as limited to 20 mph, Class 3 as pedal‑assist up to 28 mph, and allowing motors up to 750 watts for those classes.
- Vehicles capable of exceeding 28 mph will be treated as motor vehicles and must have a driver's license, title, registration and insurance while being barred from bike paths and lanes.
- The measure sets minimum ages for riders—15 for Class 1 and 2 and 16 for Class 3—and adds rules for electric skateboards, unicycles and high‑speed scooters including placement and sidewalk speed limits.
- Supporters cite a sharp rise in emergency visits as the reason for the law while riders and retailers warn it will raise compliance costs and create enforcement challenges for local police and municipalities.