SCOTCH PLAINS, NJ – In the aftermath of a heartbreaking e-bike accident that claimed the life of a 13-year-old resident, leaders from Scotch Plains and Fanwood joined Senate President Nick Scutari and Union County officials Wednesday to call for urgent reforms to New Jersey’s e-bike regulations.
The press conference, held on the steps of the Scotch Plains municipal building, marked a pivotal moment in the region’s response to the growing safety concerns surrounding electric bicycles.
State, county and municipal officials at Wednesday’s press conference at the Scotch Plains Municipal Building.
Senate President Scutari (D-22nd Dist.) cited the rapid rise in e-bike usage across the state and the alarming increase in injuries, particularly among children, as a clear signal that current laws are insufficient.
Senator Nicholas Scutari discusses to his legislative initiative to modernize New Jersey’s e-bike laws.
“We must act swiftly and responsibly to protect our children and neighbors,” said Scotch Plains Mayor Josh Losardo. “This tragedy has galvanized our community, and I’m grateful for the leadership shown by our county and state partners.”
Union County Commissioner Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded announced plans to issue an Executive Order restricting e-bike use in designated areas of county parks, reinforcing the need for local and regional coordination.
Union County Commissioner Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded.
At the municipal level, Scotch Plains and Fanwood are actively aligning ordinances to regulate e-bike use, with a shared commitment to consistency across town borders. Officials emphasized that uniform rules—covering speed limits, age restrictions, helmet requirements, and designated riding zones—are essential for protecting riders, pedestrians, and motorists alike.
Lt. Dan Kranz, Officer in Charge of the Fanwood Police Dept., and Councilwoman Patricia Walsh.
“This is not just a Scotch Plains issue or a Fanwood issue—it’s a shared community issue,” said Fanwood Mayor Colleen Mahr. “Our children travel between our towns every day. By aligning our ordinances and working together, we can better safeguard everyone who uses our streets.”
Education is at the heart of the local response. Scotch Plains Deputy Mayor Matt Adams highlighted the importance of teaching young riders the rules of the road and the risks of unsafe riding.
The Scotch Plains and Fanwood Police Departments are partnering with the Union County Association of Chiefs of Police to produce an educational video aimed at children and families. In addition, both municipalities aspire to work with the Scotch Plains-Fanwood Board of Education to expand outreach to all middle schools and SP-F High School.
Scotch Plains Police Chief Jeff Briel noted that many accidents stem from young riders’ lack of experience, physical coordination, and cognitive maturity. “We’re seeing injuries that range from broken limbs to brain trauma,” he said. “This is a public health issue, and we need to treat it as such.”
According to recent studies, e-bike injuries among children aged 10 to 13 have surged nearly 300% nationwide since 2019. With over 1.7 million e-bikes sold last year—a 75% increase from 2023—the urgency for reform is clear.
As Scotch Plains and Fanwood mourn the loss of a young life, their leaders are determined to turn grief into action. Through legislation, education, and collaboration, they are laying the groundwork for a safer future—one where innovation and recreation are balanced by responsibility and care.
Senator Nicholas Scutari discusses to his legislative initiative to modernize New Jersey’s e-bike laws.
