If you have been thinking about getting an electric bike, now may be the best time to do it (at least in the state of California). California has recently passed legislation that provides funding for disadvantaged communities or low-income individuals who want to experience the benefits ebikes offer. Here’s what you should know about the program, and why electric bikes such as those from E-Lux Electric Bikes are becoming so popular.
New CA Law Details
California’s Governor Gavin Newsom signed a new bill (SB 400) on Friday, September 6, 2019. The bill makes bikeshares and ebike use more affordable for all – especially low-income communities. As a result of the bill, more people will now have access to the popular and economically friendly mode of transportation. The bill also helps cut back on air pollution by encouraging more people to get out and ride electric bikes to work, school or anywhere else they are going.
SB 400 is an amendment to the Clean Cars 4 All (CC4A) Program. Previously, the definition of “mobility options” did not include electric bikes. Thanks to SB 400, bikeshare programs and e-bikes are now included. According to the new law, any resident who resides in a participating air quality district can potentially receive up to $7,500 in the form of a voucher. The voucher money can be put toward the purchase of a bikeshare program or an e-bike in exchanged for their regular, gas-powered car or truck.
Benefits of the Law
There are many benefits to the new ebike law and the entire CC4A program, but the main reason it was put into effect is to reduce fleet emissions. It does this by encouraging people to ride cleaner, newer and more efficient vehicles. This will help California meet its air quality standards and make the air healthier for all residents and visitors.
An additional benefit of the SB 400 law is that it helps low-income individuals gain access to a fun and healthy mode of transportation that they otherwise wouldn’t be able to afford. As more people ride ebikes, the entire community also becomes healthier and more fit. Although electric bikes are electrically powered, they can also be pedal-powered, which encourages physical fitness and can boost mental and emotional health.
Legislation Funding
The greenhouse reduction fund provides funding to the CC4A program. When the greenhouse reduction budget has leftover funds, they can be applied as needed to a district. The amount of funding the CC4A program receives is decided on an annual basis. The amount of funding designated to bikeshare and e-bike vouchers varies and is determined by the air quality districts that are participating in the program.
If you live in a low-income area, you may want to apply for a voucher that you can put toward an ebike or bikeshare program. If you qualify, you could receive enough money to help you purchase a good bike that will get you where you need to go in an economically friendly way. In addition to improving your own physical fitness and getting fresh air regularly, you’ll also be helping to make the environment a cleaner and more beautiful place.