Clark County officials are working on new regulations to address safety issues related to electric scooters, bicycles, and motorcycles, following concerns about their use in public spaces. This initiative follows Assembly Bill 485, which allows local governments to set rules for scooter rental programs. State laws already dictate that electric scooters cannot exceed 20 mph and must be operated close to the right side of the road, among other safety standards.
Commissioner Justin Jones has instructed staff to draft an ordinance to manage these vehicles, acknowledging enforcement challenges due to their speed and the broad definition of motorized vehicles. Similar efforts are underway in surrounding areas like Henderson and Boulder City. Henderson recently passed a law restricting the use of these vehicles to designated areas, while Boulder City is focusing on educational programs to inform the public about regulations and safety.
Los Angeles serves as a cautionary example, having faced significant challenges with e-scooters shortly after their introduction. The city had to address numerous complaints and enforce compliance through a dedicated task force. Erin Breen from UNLV emphasizes the need for clear regulations to ensure the safety of both riders and pedestrians. The ongoing efforts in Clark County aim to create a uniform approach across jurisdictions to better manage the integration of these vehicles into public spaces.