E-BIKE Act

Electric Bicycle Incentive Kickstart for the Environment Act or the E-BIKE Act

This bill allows individual taxpayers a new tax credit for 30% of the cost of a qualified electric bicycle. The bill defines qualified electric bicycle to mean a bicycle or tricycle that does not cost more than $8,000 and that is equipped with fully operable pedals, a saddle or seat for the rider, and an electric motor of less than 750 watts designed to assist in propelling the bicycle or tricycle under certain conditions

The bill requires the Internal Revenue Service to establish a program to make advance payments of the credit and to publicly report on the number of taxpayers claiming the credit and the aggregate dollar amount of the credit, beginning in 2023 and 2024.

The E-BIKE Act, also known as Bill 118 hr 1685, is a piece of legislation introduced in the US Congress that aims to promote the use of electric bicycles (e-bikes) as a sustainable and efficient mode of transportation. The bill seeks to provide tax credits to individuals who purchase e-bikes, in order to incentivize their use and reduce carbon emissions from traditional vehicles.

Under the E-BIKE Act, individuals would be eligible for a tax credit of up to 30% of the cost of purchasing an e-bike, with a maximum credit of $1,500. The credit would be available for e-bikes that are used primarily for personal transportation and have a maximum speed of 28 miles per hour. Additionally, the bill includes provisions for low-income individuals to receive a refundable tax credit for the purchase of an e-bike.

Supporters of the E-BIKE Act argue that promoting the use of e-bikes can help reduce traffic congestion, improve air quality, and encourage physical activity. They also point to the environmental benefits of e-bikes, as they produce zero emissions and require less energy to operate than traditional vehicles. Opponents of the bill have raised concerns about the cost of implementing the tax credits and the potential impact on government revenue. They also argue that e-bikes may not be a practical mode of transportation for all individuals, particularly those who live in rural areas or have physical limitations that prevent them from riding a bike. Overall, the E-BIKE Act represents a bipartisan effort to promote sustainable transportation options and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. The bill is currently being considered by Congress, and its future prospects remain uncertain.