AUSTIN, Texas — A Texas lawmaker is leading the way in regulating the use of electric scooters.
- Texas A&M would do the research
- Texas Department of Transportation would assist
- Study would look at safety standards
Representative Eddie Rodriguez, D-Austin, filed a bill Thursday that would require a study to be conducted on the use of motor-assisted scooters. The research would be carried out by the Texas A&M Transportation Institution with consultation by the Texas Department of Transportation.
Researchers would look at several factors, including liability issues, safety standards, and the economic impact of electric scooters.
Rodriguez said he believes scooters have the potential to reduce congestion and pollution by filling a vital role in the transportation systems of the future. But he has some concerns.
“The abrupt, and, in some cases premature, deployment of scooters has revealed thorny issues that suggest the need for regulation,” said Rodriguez. “But without rigorous, objective data, it is unclear what combination of policies would best serve Texans and their local governments without stifling innovation.”
Rodriguez represents East Austin and Southeast Travis County’s District 51.