A "MICRO ID" system tied to speed-based tiers was among a series of recommendations to Massachusetts legislators to address micromobility devices, like electric bicycles and scooters.
The Special Commission on Micromobility Report, released in February, made 16 recommendations to the Massachusetts legislature, ranging from design guidance and infrastructure to police training and crash report data. It also suggested expanding bikeshare and more e-bike subsidies as well as a study of commercial micromobility use.
In hearings last fall, the Special Commission on Micromobility identified three main challenges: overall confusion, insufficient infrastructure, and hampered growth. “Existing laws do not clearly distinguish between slower, bicycle-like devices and faster, heavier vehicles that pose greater safety risks. This has led to confusion, uneven enforcement, and a patchwork of local rules.”
A speed-based tier system would treat lower-speed devices more like traditional bicycles that would be allowed on paths and bike facilities. Higher-speed devices would face stricter rules on roadway usage, age limits, and safety requirements. “Together, the speed tiers and Micro ID system create a flexible foundation that can adapt as technology evolves,” according to the report.
“The Commission recognizes that this report is the beginning of a conversation, not an endpoint.”
The complete 117-page report is available here.