Los Angeles City Council transportation committee refined a new set of regulations Wednesday for electric scooters.
The committee recommended a cap on scooters’ speed that does not exceed 12 mph. It also proposes the creation of a use permit system for companies that operate the devices. The changes were prompted by news that electric scooter companies were considering raising the speed level of their devices; they now run at about 15 mph.
Wednesday’s adjustments would allow for the Los Angeles Department of Transportation to approve or revoke permits for companies already operating in the city but would freeze the expansion to new areas until the final regulations are approved by the council.
The Transportation Committee had previously approved regulations back in June that limit the number of devices for each provider. That number differs from one city to the other, where more devices will be allowed to operate in so-called disadvantaged communities.
Meanwhile, electric scooters are causing a public nuisance in areas where they are operating. So will limiting the speed of the devices solve that problem?
Guest:
Meghan McCarty Carino, KPCC reporter covering commuting and mobility who was at yesterday’s LA City Council committee meeting