February 16, 2023 - On Jan. 12, 2023 DC Council member Brooke Pinto introduced legislation to incentivize the use of electric bicycles by establishing an instant rebate program for consumers and businesses. “The Electric Bicycle Incentive Kickstarting the Environment (E-BIKE) Act of 2023” will provide rebates to residents and Certified Business Enterprises that purchase electric bicycles.
Designed with equity as a top priority, the instant rebate program will expand access to electric bicycles to residents who are currently priced out of making a purchase. Councilmembers Charles Allen, Brianne Nadeau, Robert White, Janeese Lewis George, Matthew Frumin, and Vincent Gray co-introduced the bill.
“The E-BIKE Act is aimed at reducing cost-barriers that prevent residents from purchasing an electric bike, while supporting small business owners here in DC,” said Councilmember Pinto. “As we continue to invest in our protected bike lane network, this legislation is crucial to ensuring as many residents as possible can benefit from this expanded infrastructure.”
Fifty percent of the rebates are reserved for residents who earn below 80% of the median family income. The rebate vouchers may only be used to purchase an electric bicycle or electric cargo bicycle at a bike shop located in the District.
“Electric bikes are an environmentally friendly way to more easily get around the city.” said Councilmember Pinto. “Reductions in traffic congestion and pollution mean we all benefit from getting more residents onto bikes – the rebate program provides an additional opportunity and incentive for residents to make this choice.”
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