The Orange County School Board is discussing potential restrictions on e-bikes and scooters for students due to safety concerns. With the first day of school just three weeks away, the board is holding a workshop to explore possible changes.
Safety Concerns
At many schools, e-bikes and scooters are commonly parked outside, but their use has raised safety issues. “What we’re seeing is kids getting hurt, kids not following the rules of the road, not wearing helmets,” said Orange County School Board member Angie Gallo.
The board is considering ideas such as banning all elementary students from using micro-mobility devices, prohibiting modified e-bikes capable of speeds up to 28 miles per hour, banning chargers on campus, and requiring students to register their devices and obtain a permit.
Gallo expressed support for an educational approach, regardless of the board’s final decision. “I’m also concerned that if we ban them, they’re just going to ride them and then lock them up at the nearest tree, and then walk on to campus. Is it really going to solve an issue? I don’t want to create unintended consequences to solve an issue that may be better solved through education,” Gallo said.
A final vote on the new policy for e-bikes and scooters is expected next week.
Original reporting: WESH Orlando — read the source article.
