Michigan would require safety certifications for e-bike batteries and systems

People could not sell or distribute an e-bike battery unless it is certified to UL 2271 standards. E-bikes made or offered for sale would need a UL 2271-certified battery and a UL 2849-certified electrical system. The rules cover people selling or distributing e-bike batteries and e-bikes that are made, sold, offered for sale, or distributed. These requirements would begin January 1, 2027.

An individual could not operate an e-bike unless it has a battery certified to UL 2271 standards and an electrical system certified to UL 2849 standards. This applies to anyone operating an electric bicycle. The operating rule would begin January 1, 2027.

A person who violates the battery sale or e-bike equipment rules could face a civil infraction for a first violation and misdemeanor penalties for later violations. A rider who violates the operating rule could face a civil fine. These penalties apply to violations of the battery sale, e-bike equipment, and rider operating rules. For a first violation of the sale or equipment rules, a person may be ordered to pay a fine of up to $1,000. A second violation is a misdemeanor punishable by up to 90 days in jail, a fine of up to $5,000, or both. A third or later violation is a misdemeanor punishable by up to one year in jail, a fine of up to $20,000, or both. A rider who violates the operating rule may be ordered to pay a fine of up to $500.