(L-R Leg. Carrie Solages. Leg. Delia DeRiggi-Whitton, Leg. Scott Davis, Carmine Macchia, Leg. Olena Nicks, Leg. Debra Mule, Leg. Cynthia Nunez, Leg. Viviana Russell)
Mineola, NY (March 27, 2026) — Nassau County legislators today announced legislation to update outdated county rules that currently subject many riders to unfair fines, confiscation of their property, and confusing enforcement for using one of the fastest-growing and most affordable forms of transportation in America.
Under the proposal, Nassau County would legalize most e-bikes and electric scooters already permitted under New York State law, while continuing to prohibit riding on sidewalks and highways — the same commonsense restrictions recognized under state law.
E-bikes and scooters have surged in popularity nationwide as commuters seek cheaper, cleaner, and more practical ways to travel. As gas prices, insurance costs, and car payments continue to strain household budgets, more residents are turning to these low-cost options to reach jobs, Long Island Rail Road stations, and local businesses.
For many Nassau residents, these devices are essential for getting to work, reaching Long Island Rail Road stations, running errands, and lowering monthly transportation costs. With gas prices, insurance premiums, and car payments continuing to strain household budgets, affordable alternatives are more important than ever.
The need for reform was underscored by the experience of West Hempstead resident Carmine Macchia, who joined legislators to share how his Class 2 e-bike was recently confiscated while riding just around the corner from his home. Macchia said he was required to pay the same fee as a car tow to recover the bike, and when he arrived at an auto body facility in New Hyde Park the next day, he was told to choose a bicycle from a collection without being asked for proof of ownership. Legislators said the incident demonstrates how outdated rules can create unfair penalties and chaotic, confusing enforcement for ordinary residents.
Legislator Olena Nicks, sponsor of the legislation, said, “People are trying to get to work, get to the train station, and support their families. They should not have to fear that the affordable transportation they rely on could be seized or that they will be hit with unfair fines because Nassau County has failed to modernize an outdated law.”
Minority Leader Delia DeRiggi-Whitton added, “At a time when families are being squeezed by rising costs, government should be helping people save money — not punishing them for choosing low-cost transportation. This bill brings fairness and common sense back to the law.”
Legislator Debra Mulé said, “We can protect public safety and protect residents at the same time. This proposal keeps important bans on sidewalks and highways in place while ending unnecessary penalties for lawful riders.”
Legislator Arnold Drucker said, “When laws are outdated and confusing, ordinary residents pay the price. This legislation creates clear rules people can understand and restores consistency with New York State.”
Legislator Carrie Solages said, “For many working families, reliable transportation can be the difference between keeping a job and falling behind. E-bikes and scooters help residents get to work, get to school, and meet their daily responsibilities. Nassau County should be removing barriers to opportunity — not creating new ones through outdated laws and unfair penalties.”
Legislator Scott Davis said, “Residents should not be targeted for using a practical and fuel-efficient way to commute. Nassau County should be encouraging smart transportation choices, not standing in their way.”
Legislator Viviana Russell said, “For many families, an e-bike or scooter is how they get to work, school, and essential appointments. Mobility creates opportunity, and government should not block either one.”
Legislator Cynthia Núñez said, “This is about helping working people keep more money in their pockets. Every unnecessary fine, every confiscation, and every confusing rule hurts families already dealing with high costs.”
The legislation would:
- Legalize most e-bikes and scooters already permitted under state law
- Maintain prohibitions on sidewalks and highways
- Reduce confusion for riders, retailers, and law enforcement
- Protect residents from unfair fines and confiscations
- Expand access to affordable, fuel-efficient transportation options
- Help commuters connect to LIRR stations, jobs, and main street shopping and business districts