Rhode Island House Bill H7350

Rhode Island 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/4/22
• Refer: 2/4/22
• Report Pass: 6/15/22
• Engrossed: 6/17/22
• Refer: 6/20/22

Caption

Regulation Of Rental Of Motorized Bicycles, Motor Scooters And Motorized Tricycles In New Shoreham

Impact

The bill stipulates that no person or corporation may rent such motorized vehicles without a license issued by the local town or city council. This provision aims to enhance oversight and control over the operations and safety aspects of these rentals. Additionally, the legislation allows for the local councils to implement reasonable ordinances governing the licensing process, including potential fees, number limitations on rental permits, and operational hours. This is intended to ensure that rental practices are safer and more accountable.

Summary

House Bill 7350, introduced in the Rhode Island General Assembly, focuses on the regulation of the rental of motorized bicycles, motor scooters, and motorized tricycles in the towns of New Shoreham and Newport. The bill aims to establish clear standards and procedures for the supervision of these rentals to ensure public safety in light of increasing accidents and traffic congestion caused by these vehicles. It emphasizes the importance of having a regulated rental process as a necessary exercise of the state's police powers to enhance public health and welfare while enjoying these modes of transport.

Contention

While Bill H7350 has been generally supported in its intent to regulate motorized vehicle rentals, there may be contention over how strictly local governments enforce these regulations. Potential opposition could arise concerning the burden of compliance for smaller rental businesses or concerns regarding the maximum rental limits set forth in local ordinances. Furthermore, debates may arise related to the appropriateness of fees and the balance between public safety measures and business activities, which could impact local economies.