Marco Island residents voice concerns over e-bike safety as Florida legislature passes new bill

MARCO ISLAND, Fla. (WINK)—E-bikes have sparked a debate across Florida, with opinions divided on their use.

New legislation passed this week in Tallahassee aims to tighten regulations across the state.

Following a WINK Listens event held on Marco Island, Elliot Mascoop shared his mixed feelings about e-bikes.

"There's no reason that people should be able to drive a vehicle on the sidewalks almost as fast as you're driving a car on the street," said Mascoop.

Mascoop expressed frustration with the speed and behavior of some e-bike riders.

"So many times, people just come from behind; I just have to jump out of the way. I have to almost fall onto the grass because they're coming at you from behind on the sidewalk. And they don't use bells, and they speed by," said Mascoop.

Marco Island's shared-use paths are bustling with walkers, runners, and bikers, with clear speed limits posted.

"Yes, it is written clearly in you know, it's there in paint. You can't miss it, and they ignore it," he explained.

Local bike shops are trying to educate tourists about e-bike rules. Some e-bikes even come equipped with speedometers to help control speeds.

Chris Gambino, an avid biker, also shared her perspective while out walking.

"So, when we ride our bikes, we particularly choose the sidewalks that are wide and will ring our bell. Like I said, when we walk, we're aware, and we usually give way to the bikes, just because, when you're riding on a bike, and you have, like, a more narrow path," she added.

Mascoop believes more could be done.

"I would say you would only allow e-bikes to have a governor on e-bikes that they can only go so fast. Also required is that every e-bike has a bell, a whistle, and a horn to warn people. I mean, do everything you can so that there's no accidents, because it's so much easier to prevent than to heal from a serious accident," said Mascoop.

Marco Island has issued two citations to e-bike riders since strengthening its ordinances in July 2025. The local ordinance sets a maximum speed limit of 12 mph on sidewalks and shared-use paths and requires riders to yield to pedestrians and use bells or voice signals when passing.

The Florida Legislature recently passed SB 382, which outlines new requirements for e-bike operation. The legislation prohibits riding e-bikes above certain speeds and introduces penalties for noncompliance. It also establishes the Micromobility Device Safety Task Force to improve safety regulations.

The task force will include representatives from various organizations and will develop recommendations to enhance traffic safety for micromobility device users and pedestrians. A report with legislative suggestions is due by October 1, 2026.  The bill is awaiting Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis' signature.

For more details on the legislation, click here.