General Provisions; Electric Bicycles, 69175-69188 [2020-22129]

Agencies

• DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR
• National Park Service

[Federal Register Volume 85, Number 212 (Monday, November 2, 2020)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 69175-69188]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2020-22129]


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DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR

National Park Service

36 CFR Parts 1 and 4

[NPS-WASO-REGS; 30756; GPO Deposit Account 4311H2]
RIN 1024-AE61


General Provisions; Electric Bicycles

AGENCY: National Park Service, Interior.

ACTION: Final rule.

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SUMMARY: The National Park Service promulgates regulations governing 
the use of electric bicycles, or e-bikes, within the National Park 
System. This rule defines the term ``electric bicycle'' and establishes 
rules for how they may be used. This rule implements Secretary of the 
Interior Order 3376, ``Increasing Recreational Opportunities through 
the use of Electric Bikes,'' on lands administered by the National Park 
Service.

DATES: This rule is effective on December 2, 2020.

ADDRESSES: The comments received on the proposed rule and an economic 
analysis are available on www.regulations.gov in Docket ID: NPS-2020-
0001.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Jay Calhoun, Regulations Program 
Manager, National Park Service; (202) 513-7112; 
[email protected].

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Background

Use and Management of Bicycles

    Bicycling is a popular recreational activity in many units of the 
National Park System. Cyclists of all skill levels and ages enjoy 
riding on roads and designated bicycle trails for scenery, exercise, 
and adventure. Visitors bicycle alone, with friends, or with family. 
From leisurely rides to challenging alpine climbs, bicycles offer 
spectacular opportunities to experience the resources of the National 
Park System.
    National Park Service (NPS) regulations at 36 CFR 4.30 govern the 
use of bicycles on NPS-administered lands. These regulations identify 
where bicycles are allowed, manage how bicycles may be used, and allow 
superintendents to restrict bicycle use when necessary. Bicycles are 
allowed on park roads and parking areas open to public motor vehicles. 
Bicycles are also allowed on administrative roads that are closed to 
motor vehicle use by the public but open to motor vehicle use by the 
NPS for administrative purposes, but only after the superintendent 
determines that such bicycle use is consistent with protection of the 
park area's natural, scenic and aesthetic values, safety considerations 
and management objectives, and will not disturb wildlife or park 
resources. The use of bicycles on trails is subject to a thorough 
approval and review process. When bicycle use is proposed for a new or 
existing trail, the NPS must complete a planning process that evaluates 
bicycle use on the specific trail, including impacts to trail surface 
and soil conditions, maintenance costs, safety considerations, 
potential user conflicts, and methods to protect resources and mitigate 
impacts. For both new and existing trails, the NPS must complete NEPA 
analysis that concludes that bicycle use on the trail will have no 
significant impacts. The superintendent must prepare and the regional 
director must approve the same written determination that is required 
for allowing bicycles on administrative roads. Each of these documents 
must be made available for public review and comment. For new trails 
outside of developed areas, the NPS must publish a special regulation 
designating the trail for bicycle use, which is subject to a separate 
public comment period.
    Adherence to the procedures in these regulations helps ensure that 
bicycles are allowed only in locations where, in the judgment of the 
NPS, their use is appropriate and will not cause unacceptable impacts. 
The NPS has completed the process required by these regulations in many 
NPS units, including the following that have special regulations 
designating trails for bicycle use: Rocky Mountain National Park (36 
CFR 7.7), Saguaro National Park (36 CFR 7.11), Cuyahoga Valley National 
Park (36 CFR 7.17), Hot Springs National Park (36 CFR 7.18), Grand 
Teton National Park (36 CFR 7.22), Mammoth Cave National Park (36 CFR 
7.36), Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore (36 CFR 7.80), New River 
Gorge National River (36 CFR 7.89), Chattahoochee River National 
Recreation Area (36 CFR 7.90), Bryce Canyon National Park (36 CFR 
7.94), Pea Ridge National Military Park (36 CFR 7.95), and Golden Gate 
National Recreation Area (36 CFR 7.97).

Introduction of Electric Bicycles

    While bicycling has been a decades-long tradition in many park 
areas, the appearance of electric bicycles, or e-bikes, is a relatively 
new phenomenon. An e-bike is a bicycle with a small electric motor that 
provides power to help move the bicycle. As they have become more 
popular both on and off NPS-managed lands, the NPS has recognized the 
need to address this emerging form of recreation so that it can 
exercise clear management authority over e-bikes and provide clarity to 
visitors and stakeholders such as visitor service providers.
    Similar to traditional bicycles, the NPS believes that, with proper 
management, the use of e-bikes may be an appropriate activity in many 
park areas. E-bikes advance the NPS's ``Healthy Parks Healthy People'' 
goals to promote national parks as a health resource.\1\ Specifically, 
e-bikes can increase bicycle access to and within parks. E-bikes make 
bicycle travel easier and more efficient because they allow bicyclists 
to travel farther with less effort. E-bikes can expand the option of 
bicycling to more people by providing a new option for those who want 
to ride a bicycle but might not otherwise do so because of physical 
fitness, age, or convenience, especially at high altitude or in hilly 
or strenuous terrain. Also, when used as an alternative to gasoline- or 
diesel-powered modes of transportation, e-bikes can reduce greenhouse 
gas emissions and fossil fuel consumption, improve air quality, and 
support active modes of transportation for park staff and visitors. 
Similar to traditional bicycles, e-bikes can decrease traffic 
congestion, reduce the demand for vehicle parking spaces, and increase 
the number and visibility of cyclists on the road.
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    \1\ For more information about how the NPS promotes the health 
and well-being of park visitors through the Healthy Parks Healthy 
People movement, visit https://www.nps.gov/subjects/healthandsafety/health-benefits-of-parks.htm.
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Policy Direction for Managing E-Bikes

Secretary's Order 3376

    On August 29, 2019, Secretary of the Interior Bernhardt signed 
Secretary's Order 3376, ``Increasing Recreational Opportunities through 
the use of

[[Page 69176]]

Electric Bikes.'' The purpose of this Order is to increase recreational 
opportunities for all Americans, especially those with physical 
limitations, and to encourage the enjoyment of lands and waters managed 
by the Department of the Interior. The Order emphasizes the potential 
for e-bikes to reduce the physical demands of operating a bicycle and 
therefore expand access to recreational opportunities, particularly for 
those with limitations stemming from age, illness, disability or 
fitness, and in more challenging environments, such as high altitudes 
or hilly terrain. E-bikes have an electric motor yet are operable in a 
similar manner to traditional bicycles and in many cases appear 
indistinguishable from them. For these reasons, the Order acknowledges 
there is regulatory uncertainty regarding whether e-bikes should be 
managed similar to other types of bicycles, or, alternatively, 
considered motor vehicles. The Order states that this regulatory 
uncertainty has led to inconsistent management of e-bikes across the 
Department and, in some cases, served to decrease access to Federally 
owned lands by users of e-bikes. In order to address these concerns, 
the Order directs the NPS and other Department of the Interior agencies 
to define e-bikes separately from motor vehicles and to allow them 
where other types of bicycles are allowed.

NPS Policy Memorandum 19-01

    On August 30, 2019, the Deputy Director of the NPS, Exercising the 
Authority of the Director, issued Policy Memorandum 19-01, Electric 
Bicycles. This policy satisfies a requirement in the Secretary's Order 
that all Department of the Interior agencies adopt policy and provide 
appropriate public guidance regarding the use of e-bikes on public 
lands that conforms to the policy direction set forth in the Order.
    The Memorandum defines an e-bike as ``a two- or three-wheeled cycle 
with fully operable pedals and an electric motor of less than 750 watts 
that provides propulsion assistance.'' This definition is consistent 
with the definition of ``low speed electric bicycle'' in the Consumer 
Product Safety Act (15 U.S.C. 2085) and the definition of ``electric 
bicycle'' in the laws governing the Federal Aid Highway Program (23 
U.S.C. 217(j)(2), except that the definition in the Memorandum does not 
include requirements from those statutes that an e-bike may not exceed 
100 pounds or reach 20 mph when powered solely by the motor. Instead, 
the Memorandum, consistent with the Secretary's Order and many states 
that have promulgated regulations for e-bikes, refers to a three-class 
system that limits the maximum assisted speed of an e-bike:
     Class 1 electric bicycle means an electric bicycle 
equipped with a motor that provides assistance only when the rider is 
pedaling, and that ceases to provide assistance when the bicycle 
reaches the speed of 20 miles per hour.
     Class 2 electric bicycle means an electric bicycle 
equipped with a motor that may be used exclusively to propel the 
bicycle, and that is not capable of providing assistance when the 
bicycle reaches the speed of 20 miles per hour.
     Class 3 electric bicycle means an electric bicycle 
equipped with a motor that provides assistance only when the rider is 
pedaling, and that ceases to provide assistance when the bicycle 
reaches the speed of 28 miles per hour.
    Consistent with the Order, the Memorandum announces a policy that 
e-bikes are allowed where traditional bicycles are allowed and that e-
bikes are not allowed where traditional bicycles are prohibited. The 
Memorandum refers to regulations for bicycles in paragraphs (f), (g), 
and (h) of 36 CFR 4.30 that relate to closures and other use 
restrictions, other requirements, and prohibited acts. The Memorandum 
requires that these provisions also govern the use of e-bikes so that 
the use of e-bikes and bicycles are generally regulated in the same 
manner.
    Paragraph (f) of section 4.30 allows superintendents to limit or 
restrict or impose conditions on bicycle use or close any park road, 
trail, or portion thereof to bicycle use after taking into 
consideration public health and safety, natural and cultural resource 
protection, and other management activities and objectives. The 
Memorandum authorizes superintendents to limit or restrict or impose 
conditions on e-bike use for the same reasons, provided the public is 
notified through one or more methods listed in 36 CFR 1.7. When using 
this authority, the Memorandum advises superintendents to understand 
state and local rules addressing e-bikes so that the use of e-bikes 
within a park area is not restricted more than in adjacent 
jurisdictions, to the extent possible.
    Paragraph (g) of section 4.30 states that bicycle use is subject to 
certain NPS regulations that apply to motor vehicles. Specifically, 
bicycle use is subject to regulations in sections 4.12 (Traffic control 
devices), 4.13 (Obstructing traffic), 4.20 (Right of way), 4.21 (Speed 
limits), 4.22 (Unsafe operation), 4.23 (Operating under the influence 
of alcohol or drugs). The Memorandum applies these provisions in the 
same manner to e-bikes. Paragraph (g) also states that, unless 
specifically addressed by NPS regulations, the use of a bicycle is 
governed by state law, which is adopted and made part of section 4.30. 
The Memorandum requires superintendents to adopt state law in the same 
manner for e-bikes. State laws concerning the definition, safety 
operation, and licensing of e-bikes vary from state to state. A growing 
number of states use the three-class system to differentiate between 
the models and top assisted speeds of e-bikes.
    Paragraph (h) of section 4.30 prohibits possessing a bicycle in 
wilderness and contains safety regulations for the use of bicycles. 
Specifically, paragraphs (h)(3)-(5) establish rules relating to 
operation during periods of low visibility, abreast of another bicycle, 
and with an open container of alcohol. The Memorandum applies these 
provisions in the same manner to e-bikes.
    The Memorandum directs the superintendents of any NPS unit with e-
bikes present to implement the actions required by the policy using 
their regulatory authority in 36 CFR 1.5(a)(2). This authority allows 
superintendents to designate areas for a specific use or activity, or 
impose conditions or restrictions on a use or activity. As of the date 
of this rule, more than 380 units of the National Park System have 
implemented the e-bike policy under the authority in 36 CFR 1.5(a)(2) 
and have published notice of this action in the park-specific 
compilation of management actions required by 36 CFR 1.7(b), referred 
to as the superintendent's compendium. This means that for each of 
these NPS units, e-bikes are already allowed subject to the rules 
governing them that are set out in the compendium and no further action 
would be needed to reauthorize continued use of e-bikes under this 
regulation.

Final Rule

    As explained above, Secretary's Order 3376 directs the NPS to 
revise 36 CFR 1.4 and any associated regulations to be consistent with 
the Order. The Bureau of Land Management (BLM), U.S. Fish and Wildlife 
Service (FWS), and Bureau of Reclamation (Reclamation) are also 
revising their regulations for consistency with S.O. 3376. 
Specifically, the Order directs the NPS, BLM, FWS, and Reclamation to 
add a definition for e-bikes consistent with 15 U.S.C. 2085, and 
expressly exempt all e-bikes as defined in the Order from the 
definition of motor vehicles.

[[Page 69177]]

    This rule accomplishes these directives as related to the NPS, and 
once effective, will supersede and replace Policy Memorandum 19-01. The 
rule amends 36 CFR 1.4 to add a new definition of ``electric bicycle'' 
that is the same as the definition used in the Policy Memorandum, with 
one minor difference. The definition in the Memorandum refers to the 
definition of ``electric bicycle'' in the Consumer Product Safety Act 
(15 U.S.C. 2085), which limits the power of the motor to less than 750 
watts. Many manufacturers sell e-bikes with motors having exactly 750 
watts. In order to avoid the unintended consequence of excluding many 
devices from the regulatory definition of an e-bike due to a one-watt 
difference in power, the definition of e-bikes in this rule includes 
devices of not more than 750 watts.
    The rule explicitly excludes e-bikes from the definition of ``motor 
vehicle'' found at 36 CFR 1.4. This clarifies that, except as stated in 
section 4.30(g), e-bikes are not subject to the regulations in 36 CFR 
part 4 that apply to the use of motor vehicles. The NPS does not need 
to change the existing definition of ``bicycle'' to distinguish them 
from e-bikes because the definition of bicycle includes only those 
devices that are ``solely human powered.'' E-bikes are excluded from 
this definition because they have an electric motor that helps power 
the device.
    Consistent with the Secretary's Order and the Policy Memorandum, 
this rule states that e-bikes may be allowed on roads, parking areas, 
administrative roads and trails that are open to traditional bicycles. 
The rule also states that superintendents will designate the areas open 
to e-bikes and notify the public pursuant to 36 CFR 1.7. E-bikes are 
not allowed in other locations. E-bikes are allowed on administrative 
roads and trails where bicycles are allowed without the need to 
undertake the procedural steps in paragraphs (b)-(e) of section 4.30 
that were required when traditional bicycles were first allowed in 
those locations. If a superintendent proposes to designate an 
administrative road or trail for e-bike use where traditional bicycles 
are not yet allowed, then the superintendent would need to follow the 
procedural steps required by paragraphs (b)-(e) in order to designate 
those locations for bicycle and e-bike use.
    Although bicycles and e-bikes will be defined differently, the rule 
applies certain regulations that govern the use of bicycles to the use 
of e-bikes in the same manner as the Policy Memorandum. These 
regulations are explained in more detail above and include rules of 
operation and adoption of state law to the extent not addressed by NPS 
regulations. The rule also gives superintendents the authority to limit 
or restrict e-bike use after taking into consideration public health 
and safety, natural and cultural resource protection, and other 
management activities and objectives. If warranted by these criteria, 
superintendents may use this authority to manage e-bikes, or particular 
classes of e-bikes, differently than traditional bicycles in particular 
locations. For example, a superintendent could determine that a trail 
open to traditional bicycles should not be open to e-bikes, or should 
be open to class 1 e-bikes only. Every restriction or closure that 
limits the use of e-bikes must be supported by a written record 
explaining the basis for such action. The record will explain why e-
bikes are managed differently than traditional bicycles if that is the 
effect of the restriction or closure. All such restrictions and 
closures should be listed in the superintendent's compendium (or 
written compilation) of discretionary actions referred to in 36 CFR 
1.7(b).
    Except for administrative actions taken by the NPS in limited 
circumstances, the Wilderness Act prohibits mechanical transport in 
wilderness areas designated by Congress. 16 U.S.C. 1133(c). 
Accordingly, paragraph (h)(2) of section 4.30 prohibits possessing a 
bicycle, a form of mechanical transport, in a wilderness area 
established by Federal statute. For the same reason, the rule prohibits 
the possession of e-bikes in designated wilderness areas, even though 
this prohibition already exists under the Wilderness Act.
    Except on park roads and other locations where the use of motor 
vehicles by the public is allowed, the rule prohibits an operator from 
exclusively using the electric motor to move an e-bike without pedaling 
for an extended period of time. This restriction is consistent with the 
Policy Memorandum and intended to allow the public to use e-bikes for 
transportation and recreation in a similar manner to traditional 
bicycles. It only affects the use of Class 2 e-bikes, which have a 
motor that may be used exclusively to propel the e-bike.

Summary of Public Comments

    The NPS published a proposed rule in the Federal Register on April 
8, 2020 (85 FR 19711). The NPS accepted comments on the rule through 
the mail, by hand delivery, and through the Federal eRulemaking Portal 
at www.regulations.gov. The comment period closed on June 8, 2020. The 
NPS received more than 17,000 comments on the proposed rule from 
individuals and 71 organizations. A summary of the pertinent issues 
raised in the comments and NPS responses are provided below. After 
considering public comments and after additional review, the NPS made 
several minor changes in the final rule which are explained in the 
responses to comments below.
    1. Comment: One commenter raised concerns about the use of shared 
e-bikes within park areas, in particular the impacts from riders 
leaving e-bikes in undesirable locations when the rental expires.
    NPS Response: Many e-bike rental companies encourage customers to 
end their trips responsibly; establish acceptable parking locations 
within service areas; require that e-bikes be parked in accordance with 
applicable laws and regulations; define prohibited acts--including 
locking the e-bike to trees or other structures, as well as blocking 
pathways, sidewalks, or ramps; and assess penalties for parking e-bikes 
outside of service areas and in violation of the rental agreement. The 
NPS expects that these rental agreements and penalties will largely 
deter riders from leaving e-bikes within park units in undesirable 
locations when the rental expires. The NPS will also work with local 
jurisdictions to ensure e-bikes are managed appropriately.
    In circumstances where a rental company is engaging in business 
within an NPS unit, written authorization from the NPS is required 
under 36 CFR 5.3. The NPS will work with companies who seek written 
authorization to conduct these businesses to develop terms and 
conditions in the permit, contract, or other written authorization that 
mitigate against this potential harm.
    2. Comment: One commenter asked the NPS to require superintendents 
that decide to allow e-bikes in park areas to develop a plan that 
educates riders about where e-bikes are allowed and proper trail 
etiquette to minimize impacts to other users of the trail.
    NPS Response: This rule gives superintendents the discretion to 
establish any safety measures deemed necessary to ensure that e-bikes 
are used in a manner that maintains a safe and enjoyable experience for 
all visitors. Superintendents are encouraged to go beyond what is 
stated in the rule and conduct community outreach and education 
campaigns to ensure that the proper riding behaviors are adhered to for 
the benefit of all NPS visitors. Before visiting an NPS unit, visitors 
are encouraged to check the park website to

[[Page 69178]]

find out what areas of the park are accessible, what activities are 
available, and which facilities are open. Upon arrival, visitors can 
obtain additional information at the Visitor Center or a Ranger 
Station. Signage is often used at common access points, such as 
trailheads, road crossings, and junctions with other types of trails as 
a means of communicating with park visitors. NPS websites, park 
brochures, and signage present a variety of information to visitors, 
including educational materials that provide guidance on trail 
etiquette to mitigate the potential for user conflict and to help 
establish user norms. Typical information resources identify the kind 
of use allowed, provide route names, trail direction and appropriate 
practices for yielding to others, and will be similarly utilized to 
educate visitors about e-bike rules and etiquette.
    3. Comment: One commenter raised an issue specific to the use of e-
bikes in National Park System units in Alaska. This commenter requested 
that the NPS allow the use of e-bikes where traditional bicycles are 
currently allowed in Alaska, which are generally allowed throughout NPS 
units in Alaska--including off-trail and in wilderness--under the 
Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act (ANILCA). This 
commenter stated that treating e-bikes differently than traditional 
bicycles in Alaska would create public confusion from an inconsistent 
management framework and reduce opportunities for public access and 
recreation.
    NPS Response: ANILCA authorizes the use of nonmotorized surface 
transportation methods for traditional activities and for travel to and 
from villages and homesites within National Park System units in 
Alaska. 16 U.S.C. 3170(a). This allowance for special access applies in 
Alaska notwithstanding any other law and does not limit nonmotorized 
transportation to designated roads or trails. The Department of the 
Interior has interpreted this statutory allowance to include the use of 
traditional bicycles; however, e-bikes do not fall under this allowance 
because they have an electric motor and therefore are not 
``nonmotorized.''
    Notwithstanding the statutory allowance for traditional bicycles in 
Alaska, the NPS is not in favor of creating different rules for e-bikes 
in Alaska than it does for e-bikes everywhere else within the National 
Park System. The stated purpose of Secretary of the Interior Order 3376 
is to simplify and unify the regulations of e-bikes on lands managed by 
the Department of the Interior. The NPS shares this goal of a 
consistent management framework within the National Park System. 
Outside of Alaska, NPS regulations allow the use of bicycles on roads 
and trails only. 36 CFR 4.30. Dispersed, overland use is not allowed. 
In order to manage e-bikes in a similar manner to traditional bicycles, 
the rule allows e-bikes only on roads and trails otherwise open to 
bicycle use and designated by the superintendent. Although the special 
allowance in Alaska for traditional bicycles is not limited to roads 
and trails, the NPS declines to extend this special allowance for e-
bikes in Alaska. The NPS has no data on the level of bicycle use on 
more than 20 million acres in Alaska that are off-trail and not in 
designated wilderness. The lack of data would make it very difficult to 
anticipate the impacts of allowing e-bikes in those same, vast 
locations--impacts that could include concerns about public safety 
associated with remote, cross-country travel, protection of resources 
in sensitive biomes such as tundra, and management objectives such as 
preserving wilderness character in eligible wilderness.
    4. Comment: Several commenters questioned how the NPS's definition 
of ``electric bicycle'' in the rule would affect how e-bikes are 
treated under other laws that do not adopt the same definition or 
management framework for e-bikes established by the NPS in this rule. 
For example, one commenter referred to the definition of ``electric 
bicycle'' in the laws governing the Federal Aid Highway Program. 23 
U.S.C. 217(j)(2). The commenter states that this definition is 
different than the NPS definition in the rule and has implications for 
the types of uses that are allowed on pedestrian and bicycle trails 
funded by the Federal Highway Administration under the Recreational 
Trails Program. One commenter suggested that the use of e-bikes could 
adversely affect the ability of the NPS or user groups to obtain funds 
for trails that come with restrictions on motorized use.
    NPS Response: The NPS's definition of ``electric bicycles'' applies 
to management of electric bicycles within the National Park System 
under the framework established by this rule. It does not modify or 
affect other federal laws and regulations in circumstances where they 
apply to the use of electric bicycles within the National Park System. 
Using the general scenario presented by the commenter, if a trail 
within the National Park System is constructed or maintained with 
federal highway funds in a manner that restricts the use of e-bikes as 
that term is defined under a separate federal law, then the 
superintendent would not have the authority to designate e-bikes for 
use on that trail in a manner that conflicts with the other applicable 
federal law. There could be circumstances where superintendents must 
choose between using federal funds for trail construction and limiting 
that trail to traditional bicycles or finding an alternative funding 
source and allowing e-bikes on the trail. The NPS believes that 
superintendents are in the best position to make these judgements and 
this rule provides them with the discretion to do so.
    5. Comment: One commenter questioned the NPS's authority under the 
NPS Organic Act (54 U.S.C. 100101) to create a management framework for 
e-bikes that allows superintendents to make decisions about e-bike use 
that--in certain cases--could allow e-bikes in more places and with 
more associated impacts than are allowed by the state where the park is 
located. This commenter stated that allowing the superintendent to 
create rules that are different than what is allowed by the state would 
create public confusion and an expectation that all three classes of e-
bikes are allowed within the National Park System.
    NPS Response: The framework in this rule gives superintendents the 
discretion to determine the appropriate level of e-bike use in park 
areas, with the important limitation that e-bikes may only be allowed 
on roads and trails where traditional bicycles are allowed. All 
management decisions made by a superintendent, including a decision 
under this rule to allow the use of e-bikes, are subject to NPS 
Management Policies that prohibit the superintendent from allowing a 
visitor use activity that would cause unacceptable impacts or 
impairment of park resources under the NPS Organic Act. This is true no 
matter what decision states make about the use of e-bikes in areas 
under their jurisdiction. The NPS does not agree that a decision by a 
superintendent to allow e-bikes in more places and with more associated 
impacts than a state would allow is per se a violation of the 
impairment mandate in the NPS Organic Act. One of the purposes of this 
rule is to create a consistent management framework for the use of e-
bikes across the National Park System, in part because all NPS units 
are subject to the same management standard articulated in the NPS 
Organic Act. Adequate public notice and community outreach will 
mitigate the potential for confusion in situations where the rules of 
e-bikes in park areas are different than the rules in adjacent or 
nearby state

[[Page 69179]]

lands. In order to reduce the potential that this will create a 
perception that all three classes of e-bikes are allowed in all park 
areas, the NPS has revised the regulatory text in 36 CFR 4.30(i)(1) to 
clarify that, in some cases, only certain classes may be allowed.
    6. Comment: Some commenters stated that allowing e-bikes on trails 
is subject to NPS regulations governing the use of off-road motor 
vehicles (ORVs) in 36 CFR 4.10 which states that ORV routes and areas 
must be designated by special regulation and only in national 
recreation areas, national seashores, national lakeshores and national 
preserves. One commenter objected to the NPS excluding e-bikes from the 
definition of ``motor vehicle'' because e-bikes are inherently 
motorized. Another commenter stated that e-bikes should be regulated as 
motor vehicles by the NPS because of a recent ruling by the U.S. 
Customs and Border Protection (CBP) that e-bikes are to be grouped with 
low-powered (less than 1kW) electric motorcycles for purposes of 
excluding them from a 25% tariff imposed by the Trump Administration on 
products imported from China.
    NPS Response: This rule revises 36 CFR 1.4 to make clear that e-
bikes are not regulated as ``motor vehicles'' under NPS regulations, 
including the regulations in 36 CFR 4.10 that govern the use of ORVs. 
As a result, the use of e-bikes is not subject to the restrictions that 
apply to the designation of ORV routes and areas in 36 CFR 4.10. The 
fact that e-bikes have a small electric motors does not compel the NPS 
to define or regulate them in the same manner as motor vehicles that in 
the vast majority of cases are larger, heavier, and powered by internal 
combustion engines that output much more than 1 hp. The NPS is free to 
exclude e-bikes from the regulatory definition of ``motor vehicles'' 
and manage them separately as it has previously done with snowmobiles. 
The fact that a majority of states have adopted regulatory schemes for 
e-bikes that are separate from regulations applying to motor vehicles 
supports the NPS making the same distinction in its regulations. 
Rulings from the CPB about the imposition of tariffs on foreign 
products imported into the United States are not relevant to how the 
NPS manages visitor use activities in park areas, including the use of 
e-bikes.
    7. Comment: Several commenters questioned whether the NPS has the 
authority to create an exception to Executive Order 11644 (Use of off-
road vehicles on the public lands) by promulgating this rule, which 
authorizes superintendents to allow motorized devices on public lands 
without following the requirements set forth in the E.O.
    NPS Response: Executive Order 11644 was issued by President Nixon 
in 1972 and amended by President Carter in 1977 through Executive Order 
11989. The Executive Order establishes policies and procedures that 
federal agencies must follow to manage the use of ``off-road vehicles'' 
on public lands. The stated purpose of the Executive Order is to 
protect the resources of the public lands, promote safety of all users 
of the lands, and minimize conflicts among those users. The Executive 
Order applies to the use of ``off road vehicles,'' which are defined as 
motorized vehicles designed for or capable of cross-country travel on 
or immediately over land, water, sand, snow, ice, marsh, swampland, or 
other natural terrain, with certain exceptions that are not relevant to 
this discussion. Although e-bikes are ``motorized'' in the literal 
sense because they have a small electric motor, the NPS does not 
believe that they were intended to be regulated as ``off-road 
vehicles'' under the Executive Order, to the extent they were even 
considered for inclusion.
    The first sentence of the Executive Order identifies the types of 
vehicles that were of concern in 1972--``motorcycles, minibikes, trial 
bikes, snowmobiles, dune-buggies, all-terrain vehicles, and others.'' 
Although this list is not exhaustive, the devices that were named in 
almost all cases used internal combustion engines for power, rather 
than an electric motor, and none relied on the rider pedaling the 
vehicle to provide most of the power to the vehicle. For these reasons, 
e-bikes are inherently different than the types of ``off-road 
vehicles'' listed under the Executive Order.
    Further, e-bikes were not identified anywhere in the Executive 
Order and for good reason. Although e-bike prototypes were developed as 
far back as the 19th century, the technological advances needed to 
popularize them, such as torque motors and power controls, were not 
developed until the mid-1990s. In 1979, after the Executive Order was 
amended by President Carter, the Council for Environmental Quality 
(CEQ) issued a report entitled ``Off-Road Vehicles on Public Land.'' 
The report discusses the requirements of the Executive Order in great 
detail and evaluates efforts undertaken by federal land management 
agencies to comply with its requirements. E-bikes are not mentioned 
anywhere in the report. The preface of the report acknowledges that the 
inclusion of snowmobiles in the definition of ``off-road vehicle'' was 
controversial at the time and identifies other types of ``motorized 
vehicles'' that were typically understood to be included within the 
definition--``motorcycles of various sorts (minibikes, dirt bikes, 
enduros, motocross bikes, etc.), four-wheel drive vehicles such as 
Jeeps, Land Rovers, or pickups, snowmobiles, dune buggies, and all-
terrain vehicles.'' Just as in the Executive Order, e-bikes are not on 
this list. Neither the Executive Order nor the CEQ report suggests that 
President Nixon or President Carter intended for the Executive Order to 
apply to small, quiet, light vehicles powered by a small electric 
motor, such as e-bikes as defined in this regulation. This supports an 
interpretation of the Executive Order that the term ``off-road 
vehicles'' should not be understood to include e-bikes as defined in 
this rule.
    In addition to this evidence that the Executive Order was not 
intended to apply to e-bikes, the NPS believes that it is appropriate 
to exclude e-bikes from the requirements of the Executive Order because 
e-bikes do not cause the kinds of impacts that the Executive Order was 
intended to mitigate. For example, e-bikes have an electric motor which 
at most emits a low steady whine when engaged, rather than an internal 
combustion engine capable of generating much louder noise. Therefore, 
e-bikes are not likely to cause the sort of sound-related impacts that 
would result in harm to wildlife behavioral patterns or create 
conflicts with visitors seeking a natural and quiet experience, factors 
that the Executive Order requires the agencies to consider when 
permitting off-road vehicles. Although the NPS acknowledges that the 
effects of noise on wildlife differ across taxonomic groups and that 
reactions to sound are different for every visitor, the use of e-bikes 
as defined in this rule is not expected to degrade the quietude in an 
unacceptable manner above and beyond the use of traditional bicycles. 
During the NPS's review of the current literature, the NPS did not find 
any studies measuring the decibels generated from e-bike motors or 
components. Nevertheless, because the noise produced by an e-bike comes 
from either the sound of the tire on the road or trail, or the electric 
motor when it is engaged, the sound levels that comes from traditional 
and electric bikes are reasonably similar. Also, unlike all the 
vehicles listed in the Executive Order, e-bikes do not emit exhaust 
that could impact air quality and the health of nearby users.
    Also, a review of available models shows that e-bikes are generally 
much lighter than even the lightest off-road

[[Page 69180]]

vehicle listed in the Executive Order, which limits their potential 
damage to natural resources in the form of soil compaction and erosion. 
A typical e-bike model weighs about 45-50 pounds, which is only 
slightly heavier than a typical traditional bicycle at 30-35 pounds. In 
comparison, minibikes, which are the lightest off-road vehicle listed 
in the Executive Order, weigh an average of 115-130 pounds. Typical 
trial bikes weigh about 145 pounds and motorcycles typically weigh 300-
400 pounds. A recent study conducted by the International Mountain 
Biking Association measured relative levels of soil displacement and 
erosion resulting from traditional, non-motorized mountain bikes, e-
bikes, and gasoline-powered dirt bikes and found that soil displacement 
and tread disturbance from e-bikes and traditional, non-motorized 
mountain bikes were not significantly different, and both were much 
less than those associated with gasoline-powered dirt bikes. Although 
this study focused on the impacts from Class 1 e-bikes, the impacts 
from Class 2 and 3 e-bikes would not be substantially different, 
especially given the prohibition on using the throttle to power a Class 
2 e-bike without pedaling for an extended period of time and applicable 
speed limits on trails. Additionally, this rule authorizes e-bike use 
only on roads and trails designated by the superintendent and does not 
authorize cross-country use of e-bikes which thus mitigates the impacts 
that the Executive Order was intended to address regarding direct over-
land travel.
    Finally, distinguishing e-bikes from other motor vehicles is 
consistent with the fact that e-bikes are not considered to be motor 
vehicles under 49 U.S.C. 30102, are not subject to regulation by 
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, and are regulated 
similar to non-motorized bicycles by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety 
Commission (CPSC). For these reasons, the NPS does not believe that 
Executive Order 11644 was intended to or should be applied to e-bikes.
    8. Comment: One commenter stated that the rule fails to consider 
whether the addition of e-bikes to park areas will affect visitor 
carrying capacities that are required to be established for each NPS 
unit under the National Parks and Recreation Act of 1978 and must be 
considered by the superintendent when evaluating new recreational uses 
of park areas under NPS Management Policies, specifically sections 8.2 
(Visitor Use), 8.2.1 (Visitor Carrying Capacity); and 8.2.2.1 
(Management of Recreational Use).
    NPS Response: The Act cited by the commenter is codified at 54 
U.S.C. 100502(3) and requires that general management plans for each 
unit of the National Park System include ``identification of and 
implementation commitments for visitor carrying capacities for all 
areas of the System unit.'' NPS Management Policies define ``carrying 
capacity'' as the ``use that can be accommodated while sustaining the 
desired resource and visitor experience conditions in the park.'' 
Setting and staying within carrying capacities can be a useful tool for 
superintendents to help ensure that park uses do not cause unacceptable 
impacts to park resources and values.
    This rule does not require superintendents to allow e-bikes in the 
park areas they manage, it simply authorizes them to do so on roads and 
trails where traditional bicycles are also allowed. The NPS operates 
under the assumption that any decision made by a park superintendent 
will comply with applicable laws and policies and be consistent with 
applicable general management plans. The NPS expects that park 
superintendents will evaluate whether the addition of e-bikes would 
affect visitor carrying capacities identified in general management 
plans or other planning documents, together with all other factors that 
would inform whether the use of e-bikes is appropriate or not.
    9. Comment: Many commenters raised concerns about the potential 
impacts e-bikes would have on park resources and the visitor 
experience. Several commenters stated that e-bikes would cause greater 
cumulative impacts to the natural environment than are caused by 
traditional bicycles due to their ability to travel longer distances 
with more gear into more remote and undisturbed areas. Commenters cited 
the potential for disturbing wildlife, grooving and erosion of ground 
surfaces, degradation of sensitive plant habitats, and negative impacts 
on geological features and cultural and archeological sites. Other 
commenters stated that e-bikes would create safety risks for certain 
riders who could travel into more remote areas and through more 
challenging terrain than would be possible with traditional bicycles. 
Safety concerns were also raised about the speed of e-bikes, in 
particular on single-track, winding trails with limited sight lines, 
and the increased potential for accidents and conflicts with other 
trail users, such as hikers and horseback riders. According to some 
commenters, adding e-bikes to shared trails would cause overcrowding 
and marginalize other forms of recreation that are compatible with a 
quiet and natural environment.
    NPS Response: The NPS agrees that park resources must be protected 
and user conflicts should be avoided where e-bikes are allowed. 
However, this rule does not mandate the use of e-bikes in any park 
area. This rule establishes a general framework that can be used by 
superintendents to allow e-bikes on designated roads and trails where 
traditional bicycles are already allowed. Existing NPS regulations 
require a robust evaluation of the potential impacts that traditional 
bicycles would have on designated trails before they can be allowed. 
See 36 CFR 4.30(d) and (e). The addition of e-bikes on roads or any of 
these trails is subject to the discretion of the superintendent who is 
required by policy to consider the impacts that a new park use such as 
e-bikes would have on park resources and visitor experience. NPS 
Management Policies clearly state that in using discretionary 
authority, superintendents will allow only uses that are appropriate to 
the purpose for which the park was established and can be sustained 
without causing unacceptable impacts. Superintendents may not allow e-
bikes if doing so would impair a park's resources, values, or purposes.
    Existing studies about the relative impact between traditional 
bicycles and e-bikes demonstrate that impacts from e-bikes are similar 
to impacts from traditional bicycles notwithstanding some disparities 
associated with visitor safety that the NPS believes can be mitigated 
if necessary by the superintendent at the park level. For example, one 
study, Comparison of environmental impacts from MTB-Class 1 eMTB, and 
motorcycles: soil displacement and erosion on bike-optimized trails in 
a Western Oregon Forest, IMBA Trail Solutions (2016), found that 
impacts from Class 1 eMTBs were similar to traditional mountain 
bicycles, while motorcycles led to much greater soil displacement and 
erosion. The study found that an emerging body of research suggests 
that when it comes to impacts to soils, water quality, and vegetation, 
the primary issue is not the type of user, but the way the trail is 
designed and constructed. Therefore, the NPS does not expect the 
addition of e-bikes to cause significant additional erosion on trails 
or degradation of plant habitats.
    Additionally, a review of available literature by Boulder County, 
Colorado concluded that all forms of recreation may have some negative 
impacts to wildlife habitat and behavior, but there is little research 
to suggest that e-bikes have greater negative impacts on trails

[[Page 69181]]

or wildlife than regular bikes and mountain bikes. See Boulder County 
E-bike Pilot Study Results and Policy Recommendation, 2019. Another 
study of the impacts of motorized and nonmotorized recreation on elk in 
Eastern Oregon, USFS. Seeking ground less traveled: Elk responses to 
recreation (2009), found that all recreation uses impacted ungulate 
behavior, but that ATV use was most disruptive to elk compared to 
mountain biking, hiking, and horseback riding. NPS does not expect e-
bike use to have a significantly larger impact to wildlife behavior 
compared to traditional bicycles.
    Regarding visitor safety and user conflicts, as stated above, e-
bikes will only be authorized on roads and trails where traditional 
bicycles are already allowed. These trails have undergone rigorous 
analysis to ensure that hikers and bicyclists can safely share the 
trail without causing visitor conflicts. The addition of e-bikes would 
not significantly alter this analysis. First, all cyclists must follow 
applicable speed limits for trails which negates many of the concerns 
about e-bikes' faster speed capabilities. In addition, the terrain and 
slope of some trails provides a natural limitation to the speed at 
which a cyclist can reasonably move. Further, although some studies 
showed average riding speeds on electric mountain bikes are slightly 
faster than conventional mountain bikes, other studies found that, 
perhaps counterintuitively, average e-bike speeds were less than 
average conventional bike speeds which may reflect the slightly older 
demographics of e-bike riders, and that differences in speed between e-
bikes and bicycles are most pronounced on the uphill segment of a trip. 
(Hall et. al. 2019; Langford, Cherry et al. 2017).
    The rule also makes clear that superintendents have the authority 
to modify, restrict, or discontinue e-bike use if it creates concerns 
about public health and safety or the protection of natural or cultural 
resources. For these reasons, the NPS does not believe that e-bikes 
will cause unacceptable impacts in parks.
    10. Comment: One commenter raised a concern about the safety of the 
electrical systems used in e-bikes, in particular the risk that e-bike 
batteries could malfunction, combust, and spark wildfires. This 
commenter recommended that the NPS require that e-bikes be certified to 
the UL 2849 electric system safety standard in order to help ensure the 
safety of e-bikes and reduce the likelihood of a catastrophic wildfire 
resulting from the use of an e-bike that does not have a properly 
managed electrical system.
    NPS Response: The CPSC is responsible for evaluating and making 
recommendations about electrical safety standards for consumer products 
manufactured and sold in the United States. E-bike manufacturers are 
required to comply with mandatory standards set by the CPCS. The NPS 
defers to the expertise held by the CPSC for setting safety standards 
associated with the electrical systems used in e-bikes and for this 
reason declines to require the UL 2849 standard for e-bikes used in 
park areas. If the use of e-bikes in park areas results in unforeseen 
safety issues or threats to natural resources, the rule allows 
superintendents to restrict or stop the use of e-bikes until such risks 
can be properly addressed. This is consistent with NPS Management 
Policies Section 8.1.2 which requires superintendents to further 
manage, constrain or discontinue park uses that cause unanticipated and 
unacceptable impacts revealed through monitoring.
    11. Comment: Several commenters stated that the introduction of e-
bikes will require the NPS to undergo a substantial revision of 
existing sign standards to clearly identify where e-bikes are allowed, 
and further which classes are allowed. One commenter recommended that 
the NPS maintain a trail sign standard with allowable use demarcations 
to depict traditional bicycles and e-bikes independently.
    NPS Response: The NPS agrees that the successful introduction of e-
bikes into park areas depends upon clear and consistent communication 
to the public about where e-bikes are allowed, and further which 
classes are allowed. The NPS is working with the other land management 
agencies within the Department of the Interior to establish standard 
signs for e-bikes. E-bikes will have symbols that are distinct from 
those used to depict traditional bicycles. The goal of this effort is 
to create a consistent visual framework indicating where e-bikes are 
allowed on public lands managed by the Department of the Interior.
    12. Comment: Several commenters questioned whether the NPS has the 
financial resources to properly manage the use of e-bikes under this 
rule given the preexisting backlog of deferred maintenance projects in 
the National Park System. Commenters cited costs associated with: (1) 
Installing and maintaining signage to identify where e-bikes are 
allowed; (2) improving trail infrastructure to accommodate e-bikes 
(e.g., trail widening, lane marking, parking facilities); (3) repairing 
trail damage from the use from e-bikes; (4) ensuring an adequate law 
enforcement presence; and (5) engaging in and incurring liability from 
search and rescue activities caused by visitors traveling beyond their 
ability level into more remote and challenging terrain.
    NPS Response: The NPS acknowledges that there will be costs 
associated with the management of e-bikes within the National Park 
System, including those cited by the commenters. To help avoid 
situations where superintendents do not have the resources to properly 
manage e-bikes, this rule does not mandate the use of e-bikes anywhere 
in the National Park System. It gives superintendents to discretion to 
allow them where they are appropriate. NPS Management Policies Section 
8.1.2 requires superintendents to consider total costs to the NPS when 
evaluating whether a proposed park use is appropriate. In the event 
that accidents or injuries occur as a result of or in conjunction with 
e-bike use, liability, if any, would be determined in accordance with 
applicable laws, which may include the Federal Tort Claims Act.
    13. Comment: Several commenters questioned whether aspects of the 
rule would be difficult to enforce, in particular the prohibition on 
using the throttle to move the e-bike without pedaling that applies 
only to Class 2 e-bikes. Commenters also questioned whether NPS law 
enforcement officers would be able to differentiate between e-bikes and 
traditional bicycles, and classes of e-bikes in circumstances where a 
superintendent has prohibited certain classes of e-bikes in particular 
locations. Commenters emphasized that these enforcement challenges 
would be exacerbated by potential violations occurring at high speeds 
and in remote locations.
    NPS Response: The NPS acknowledges that the aspects of the rule 
cited by the commenters may pose certain enforcement challenges. 
However, those challenges are not unique. They regularly arise in the 
context of enforcing laws that govern recreational use of park areas. 
For example, regulations governing use of off-road vehicles at 36 CFR 
4.10 prohibit operation of an off-road vehicle in a manner that causes 
unreasonable damage to the surface of a park road or route. Determining 
when a violation of this regulation occurs can be fact-specific, 
requiring the exercise of specialized judgment on the part of law 
enforcement officers. Similarly, determining whether a violation of the 
prohibition on extended use of throttle power without pedaling occurs 
will involve the exercise of specialized skill, training, and judgment 
by law

[[Page 69182]]

enforcement officers. Based on its experience enforcing other 
regulations that condition how the public recreates on public lands, 
the NPS believes that law enforcement officers have the expertise 
necessary to properly exercise their discretion to enforce the 
limitations on how Class 2 e-bikes may be used in a reasonable manner 
that ensures protection of public health, safety, and resources and 
users of the public lands. The NPS has also modified the regulatory 
text to make clear that using the throttle on a Class 2 e-bike without 
pedaling is only prohibited if it is done for an extended period of 
time. This will help law enforcement officials focus only on the more 
egregious cases of users using the throttle to move Class 2 e-bikes 
without pedaling.
    With respect to differentiating among traditional bicycles and e-
bikes, and among classes of e-bikes, the NPS notes that 28 states 
require e-bikes to have a label that displays the class, top assisted 
speed, and power outlet of the electric motor. Some e-bikes can be 
differentiated from traditional bicycles by simple observation. In 
other cases, the NPS expects that its law enforcement officers will use 
their specialized skill, training, and judgment to enforce this 
requirement even if the e-bike is not labeled through observation of 
riding behaviors, questioning, or other means of investigation. 
Identifying violations of NPS regulations that occur at speed is not a 
novel challenge for NPS law enforcement officers. These individuals are 
tasked on a daily basis with enforcing speed limits and equipment and 
operational requirements for the use of motor vehicles and vessels used 
within remote park areas. See, for example, 36 CFR parts 3 and 4.
    14. Comment: Several commenters suggested changes to the 
requirement in the proposed rule that except where use of motor 
vehicles by the public is allowed, using the electric motor to move an 
e-bike without pedaling is prohibited. One commenter recommended that 
the NPS remove this requirement in order to allow riders to take 
advantage of the throttle-only capabilities of Class 2 e-bikes on e-
bike lanes and paths where such use is appropriate. Another commenter 
noted that Class 2 e-bikes often have a function that allows the rider 
to disable the throttle-only capability and that the rule should 
require that this be disabled as a better regulatory alternative to 
prevent throttle-only use.
    NPS Response: The NPS acknowledges that there may be situations 
where the use of the throttle-only power may be appropriate and useful 
in limited duration. This could be the case in particular for park 
visitors who use e-bikes as to access and enjoy park areas in a manner 
that would not be possible with traditional bicycles. In limited 
duration, the throttle could be used without pedaling to get started, 
for a quick burst of power to climb a hill, or to move safely through 
an intersection. In order to more precisely tailor this restriction on 
the use of Class 2 e-bikes, the NPS has revised the final rule to only 
prohibit the use of throttle-only power for an extended period of time. 
This change will allow riders of Class 2 e-bikes to benefit from 
throttle-only power for limited durations while ensuring that e-bike 
use, where allowed, will continue to be used in a manner that is 
consistent with traditional, non-motorized bicycles. Due to this change 
in the final rule, the NPS declines to adopt the proposal to require 
riders of Class 2 e-bikes to disable the throttle-only function.
    15. Comment: One commenter suggested that the NPS revise the 
definition of ``electric bicycles'' to include a requirement that the 
device have a seat or saddle for the rider so that e-bikes are 
distinguished from other types of electric mobility devices that are 
designed to be stood upon, such as e-scooters.
    NPS Response: The NPS believes that the requirement in the 
definition that e-bikes have ``fully operable pedals'' is sufficient to 
distinguish e-bikes from other mobility devices with electric motors.
    16. Comment: One commenter questioned the effectiveness of 
requirement in the definition of ``electric bicycle'' that the electric 
motor produce no more than 750 watts of power. This commenter noted 
that e-bike manufacturers are offering multi-speed transmissions that 
increase the efficiency of the motor, which means that the speed of e-
bikes is less a function of the size of the motor than the number of 
gears and gear ratios.
    NPS Response: The NPS appreciates that the technology used in e-
bikes is likely to continue to evolve at a rapid pace, and that the 
electric motors and batteries will become more efficient over time. The 
advancements in transmission described by the commenter may increase 
the acceleration rate of e-bikes but cannot increase the top assisted 
speed beyond 20 mph (for Class 1 and 2 e-bikes) or 28 mph (for Class 3 
e-bikes) without transforming the device into a motor vehicle for 
purposes of NPS regulations. The NPS believes that the limitations on 
top assisted speed and power output are sufficient to prevent 
technological advancements from allowing devices that qualify as e-
bikes to behave like motorcycles or other motor vehicles in a manner 
that represents a significant departure from the types of devices that 
fall within the NPS definition of an ``electric bicycle'' today.
    17. Comment: Several commenters asked the NPS to limit the 
discretion given to superintendents in this rule to determine where e-
bikes may be used, and which classes may be used, within the NPS units 
they administer. Here are some of the ways these commenters proposed to 
categorically manage the use of e-bikes:
     Prohibit the use of Class 2 and 3 e-bikes on non-motorized 
trails where traditional bicycles are allowed.
     Allow Class 1 e-bikes on administrative roads and improved 
surface trails, but not single-track trails.
     Allow Class 2 e-bikes only on administrative roads.
     Allow Class 3 e-bikes only in locations open to public 
motor vehicle traffic.
     Prohibit Class 2 and 3 e-bikes on natural surface trails.
     Prohibit the use of three-wheeled e-cycles with a combined 
tire tread width wider than 15 inches on trails where traditional 
bicycles are allowed.
     Prohibit e-bikes on any trails that do not already allow 
motorized use, which would eliminate all trails from consideration 
except for ORV and snowmobile routes.
     Prohibit e-bikes on trails with groomed snow that are also 
used by over-snow vehicles.
     Allow e-bikes only on paved trails.
     Prohibit Class 2 e-bikes on all improved surface and 
shared use trails open to traditional bicycles due to their throttle-
only capabilities.
     Allow Class 1 e-bikes anywhere traditional bicycles are 
allowed without any requirement that those locations be designated by 
the superintendent.
    NPS Response: The varied and diverse approaches suggested by the 
commenters demonstrates how difficult it would be to establish 
categorical rules for where e-bikes may be used in park areas at the 
national level. The framework in this rule establishes sensible 
sideboards for the use of e-bikes by: (1) Adopting a commonly used 
state-adopted definition of ``electric bicycle'' that limits motor size 
and top assisted speed; (2) restricting e-bikes to roads and trails 
where traditional bicycles are allowed; and (3) ensuring that e-bikes 
are used like traditional bicycles by prohibiting the extended use of 
Class 2 e-bikes with throttle-only power. Further restricting the 
discretion

[[Page 69183]]

of superintendents to determine whether e-bikes should be allowed could 
prevent visitors from using e-bikes to access and enjoy park areas 
without any opportunity to evaluate whether such use is appropriate. 
For example, categorically prohibiting e-bikes on trails that are not 
ORV or snowmobile routes runs counter to evidence identified in 
previous responses to comments suggesting that impacts from e-bikes are 
more like impacts from traditional bicycles than motor vehicles.
    Superintendents are most familiar with the natural and cultural 
resources, operating budgets, and visitor use patterns in a park area, 
and therefore are in the best position to determine whether e-bikes, or 
specific classes of e-bikes, should be allowed on roads or trails where 
traditional bicycles are allowed. The rule provides superintendents 
with the flexibility to parse and delineate the exact type of e-bike 
use, if any, that is most appropriate in a park area. Taking just some 
of the examples raised by the commenters, if the top assisted speed of 
Class 3 e-bikes would cause unacceptable safety concerns on a 
particular trail, the superintendent can prohibit Class 3 e-bikes on 
that trail. If a single-track trail is too narrow to accommodate the 
width of three-wheeled e-bikes without causing unacceptable impacts to 
natural resources, the superintendent can prohibit those types of e-
bikes on that trail. If allowing e-bikes on groomed trails used by 
snowmobiles would create unacceptable safety concerns or user 
conflicts, the superintendent can prohibit that use. If allowing Class 
2 e-bikes on a single-track trail would cause unacceptable user 
conflicts or safety issues due to their throttle-only capabilities 
(even when used only for short durations), then the superintendent 
could allow Class 2 e-bikes only on administrative roads that are 
sufficiently wide to accommodate that type of traffic.
    In response to a suggestion from one commenter, the NPS has 
clarified in the final rule that the superintendent may decide to allow 
only specific classes of e-bikes in certain locations. This was always 
the intent of the rule and is part of the reason why the NPS used a 
definition of ``electric bicycle'' that distinguishes between classes. 
The NPS agrees with this commenter that the type of power activation 
and top assisted speed that distinguish the three classes necessitate a 
more granular level of decision making and allowances based on 
individual classes. Another commenter requested that the NPS state in 
the rule that e-bikes may be allowed on paved and unpaved trails. The 
NPS does not think this is necessary because the reference to 
``trails'' in the rule without any qualifier means either type of 
trail.
    18. Comment: One commenter questioned whether the prohibition in 
the rule of possessing an electric bicycle in a wilderness area 
established by Federal statute would prevent the transport of e-bikes 
mounted on motor vehicles through wilderness areas. Another commenter 
stated that the NPS should allow e-bikes in wilderness because they are 
quieter and otherwise have less impacts that horses.
    NPS Response: The use of motor vehicles is prohibited in wilderness 
areas designated under the Wilderness Act, whether or not they are 
transporting e-bikes. 16 U.S.C. 1133(c). The Wilderness Act also 
prohibits other forms of mechanical transport, a term that includes e-
bikes, leaving the NPS with no authority to allow e-bikes in wilderness 
areas designated under the Act. 16 U.S.C. 1133(c).
    19. Comment: One commenter stated that e-bikes should only be 
allowed if their use will not impede or result in the elimination of 
access for traditional bicycles.
    NPS Response: This rule authorizes superintendents to allow e-bikes 
only on roads and trails where traditional bicycles are allowed. 
Superintendents may not designate a road or trail for e-bike use and 
then subsequently prohibit the use of traditional bicycles in that 
location.
    20. Comment: One commenter asked the NPS to clarify why certain 
regulations in 36 CFR part 4 that apply to traditional bicycles do not 
apply to e-bikes under the rule. In particular, the commenter asked the 
NPS to explain why 36 CFR 4.30(h)(1) does not apply to e-bikes.
    NPS Response: 36 CFR 4.30(h)(1) prohibits riding a traditional 
bicycle off park roads and parking areas, except on administrative 
roads and trails that have been authorized for bicycle use. This rule 
contains its own provisions about where e-bikes may be used. Applying 
paragraph 4.30(h)(1) to the use of e-bikes would suggest that e-bikes 
are allowed everywhere traditional bicycles are allowed. This would not 
be accurate under this rule, which requires superintendents to take an 
administrative action to designate roads and trails where traditional 
bicycles are allowed for e-bike use, before e-bikes are allowed in 
those locations. Similar explanations exist for why other provisions in 
part 4 apply to traditional bicycles but not to e-bikes--namely, that 
this rule contains its own provisions for e-bike use that make 
referencing regulations elsewhere in part 4 unnecessary. For example, 
paragraph (i)(6) of this rule adopts and applies non-conflicting state 
law to the use of e-bikes which makes applying section 4.2 (State law 
applicable) or paragraphs 4.30(g)(2) and (h)(6) unnecessary. Another 
example is paragraph (i)(4) of this rule which prohibits possessing an 
electric bicycle in a wilderness area. This makes applying paragraph 
4.30(h)(2) to the use of e-bikes unnecessary.
    21. Comment: One commenter addressed the topic of adopting non-
conflicting state law. This commenter recommended that the NPS adopt 
non-conflicting state law in order to avoid confusing the public by a 
situation where the NPS would allow more liberal (i.e., less 
restrictive) use of e-bikes in park areas than would otherwise be 
allowed by the state. This commenter also suggested a minor edit to 
paragraph (i)(6) that would refer to the regulations in 36 CFR chapter 
I as controlling over state law, instead of the current reference to 
the regulations in section 4.30. This would ensure that the NPS 
definitions of ``electric bicycle'' and ``motor vehicle'', which appear 
in 36 CFR 1, control in the event of conflicting state definitions.
    NPS Response: Paragraph (i)(6) of the rule adopts non-conflicting 
state law and applies it to the use of e-bikes in park areas. This 
means that to the extent the superintendent has designated locations 
for e-bike use that conflict with what the state allows, the 
superintendent's designations would control. Regardless of which 
authority (NPS or state) is more liberal about the use of e-bikes, the 
NPS rule will control in park areas. In an opposite example to the one 
raised by the commenter, if the state allows e-bikes on unpaved trails, 
but the superintendent has not designated unpaved trails in the park 
for e-bike use, then e-bikes would not be allowed on unpaved trails in 
the park. Visitor use of park areas should not be determined by the 
state. That is why where state law is adopted elsewhere in NPS 
regulations, it applies only to the extent there is no conflict with 
NPS regulations. The NPS declines to adopt a regulatory framework where 
it would defer entirely to the state on matters of visitor use, even if 
that deference would only occur if visitor use is more restricted by 
the state. This would be an abdication of the NPS's legal 
responsibility to manage visitor use and enjoyment of the National Park 
System.
    The NPS appreciates the suggestion by the commenter to refer to 
``this chapter'' in paragraph (i)(6) for the

[[Page 69184]]

reasons stated by the commenter and has made this change in the final 
rule.
    22. Comment: One commenter suggested that the rule should allow e-
bikes anywhere traditional bicycles are allowed unless the 
superintendent closes a location to the use of e-bikes.
    NPS Response: The ``open unless closed'' regulatory framework 
suggested by the commenter would allow e-bikes on roads and trails 
across the National Park System without any opportunity for 
superintendents to evaluate whether they are an appropriate use of park 
areas. This would place a substantial burden on superintendents to 
close roads and trails to the use of e-bikes in order to stop 
unacceptable impacts to resources and visitor experience that would 
begin to occur immediately upon the effective date of this rule. It 
would also require the NPS on a national level to try and evaluate the 
potential impacts from e-bike use across the National Park System under 
applicable policy and law prior to the rule becoming effective. With 
more than 400 units making up the National Park System, each containing 
unique and dynamic administrative capabilities, values, resources, and 
visitor use patterns, a programmatic evaluation of these impacts would 
be impracticable. The NPS prefers the ``closed unless open'' approach 
in this rule that requires superintendents to take an affirmative 
action by designating a road or trail for e-bike use before they are 
allowed. This approach will allow superintendents to evaluate whether a 
location is appropriate for e-bike use in accordance with the policy 
guidance discussed above and the legal requirements (e.g. National 
Environmental Policy Act) discussed below.
    23. Comment: One commenter asked why the rule does not prohibit 
devices with electric motors that output more than 750 watts of power.
    NPS Response: A device with an electric motor that outputs more 
than 750 watts of power will not qualify as an e-bike under the 
definition of ``electric bicycle'' in this rule. As a result, the 
superintendent will lack to authority to allow those types of devices 
on roads and trails open to traditional bicycles under this rule. Such 
devices will fall under the definition of ``motor vehicle'' and be 
regulated as such. As a result, it would not be appropriate to ban them 
as the commenter suggests. This analysis is true of any device that 
fails to meet the criteria in the definition of ``electric bicycle''--
including devices with a top assisted speed greater than 28 mph or 
without operable pedals.
    24. Comment: One commenter suggested that the rule should allow 
seniors to use all classes of e-bikes on roads and trails open to 
traditional bicycles.
    NPS Response: The NPS appreciates that the propulsion assistance 
offered by e-bikes can provide particular benefits to park visitors 
with physical limitations, including seniors. The NPS expects that 
superintendents will consider all potential benefits and costs when 
they evaluate whether to allow e-bikes in a park area under this rule. 
It would not be prudent, however, to require superintendents to allow 
seniors to use all classes of e-bikes in all locations open to 
traditional bicycles, without any opportunity to first evaluate whether 
that would cause unacceptable impacts, visitor conflicts, or safety 
concerns--for both the senior riders and other park visitors.
    25. Comment: Several commenters suggested that the NPS establish 
annual registration, licensing, and insurance requirements for the use 
of e-bikes in park areas.
    NPS Response: The NPS believes that rules about registration, 
licensing, and insurance should be determined by the states, which are 
more experienced and equipped to implement such requirements. Creating 
a separate set of federal requirements would be overly burdensome and 
create potential confusion with the visiting public. The rule allows 
the NPS to enforce whatever requirements are established by the state 
under paragraph (i)(6) which adopts non-conflicting state law and 
applies it to the use of e-bikes in park areas.
    26. Comment: One commenter suggested the NPS undertake a systematic 
inventory and evaluation of all existing bicycle trail assets within 
the National Park System to ensure they are designed to safely 
accommodate the use of e-bikes. The commenter refers the NPS to the 
American Association of State Highway Transportation Officials (AASHTO) 
Guide for the Development of Bicycle Facilities and the American Trails 
Shared Use Path Design guidelines, both of which recommend that the 
paved tread on shared use paths should be at least 10 ft wide, with a 
graded shoulder at least 2 ft wide on either side of the path. On 
shared use paths with heavy volumes of users, the commenter states that 
tread width should be between 12 ft to 14 ft and that, in all cases, 
shared use paths should not exceed a grade of 5%.
    NPS Response: The NPS agrees that superintendents should carefully 
consider the context and characteristics of existing bicycle trails 
that are being considered for e-bike use. Many NPS multiuse trails are 
significant to the historical, cultural, or environmental context of 
the park and were designed prior to modern design guidelines and 
standards. If trail widening is not possible or is not an immediate 
solution, there are other options superintendents can implement to help 
alleviate potential trail conflicts, crowding, or resource and visitor 
impacts. In 2018, the NPS published an Active Transportation Guidebook 
to support walking and bicycling in park areas. This Guidebook provides 
references to national design standards and guidelines for multi-use 
trail widths, which is consistent with the guidelines cited by the 
commenter. The Active Transportation Guidebook also states that 
superintendents should assess routes, on a trail-by-trail basis, to 
determine whether e-bikes are appropriate by considering speed and 
safety, trail width and use-volume for accommodation of additional 
users, trail surface, and soil conditions. The NPS appreciates the 
documents cited by the commenter and will include them in a working 
inventory of resources that superintendents can use to evaluate the 
appropriateness of e-bikes on particular trails. At this time, the NPS 
does not have the resources available to undertake a systematic 
inventory and evaluation of all trails across the National Park System. 
The NPS believes a more prudent approach is to allow superintendents to 
make those suitability determinations on a trail-by-trail basis at the 
park level when the need arises.
    27. Comment: One commenter asked the NPS to address whether e-bikes 
can or should be given a special accommodation as an ``other power-
driven mobility device'' (OPDMD) under U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) 
regulations implementing the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. 
In particular, the commenter asked the NPS to address a scenario where 
a rider provides credible assurance that an e-bike is used because of a 
disability, which is the standard established by DOJ Guidance on 
``Wheelchairs, Mobility Aids, and Other Power-Driven Mobility Devices'' 
for whether a particular type of OPDMD can be accommodated.
    NPS Response: This rule does not address whether persons with 
disabilities may use e-bikes as a reasonable accommodation on NPS 
facilities, including paths, trails, and roadways. Determining if a 
person with a disability can use an e-bike as an OPDMD requires the 
same analysis as any other OPDMD. Credible assurance is not the only 
factor used in this analysis. The DOJ guidance cited by the commenter 
requires a series of factors to

[[Page 69185]]

be considered. These factors include, but are not limited to, the type 
and speed of the device, the facility's volume of pedestrian traffic, 
the facility's design and operational characteristics, whether safe 
operation of the device is feasible, and whether the use of the device 
creates a substantial risk of serious harm to the immediate environment 
or natural or cultural resources. Park superintendents or their 
designees with assistance from the NPS Accessibility Program will make 
these determinations on a case-by-case basis. The NPS Accessibility 
Program can be reached via email at [email protected].
    28. Comment: Several commenters suggested changes to the process 
for designating bicycle trails for e-bike use. One commenter 
recommended the NPS require notice-and-comment rulemaking prior to 
allowing e-bikes outside of developed areas in order to ensure there is 
a full opportunity for public participation and review of such 
decisions. Another commenter suggested that e-bikes be allowed on non-
motorized bicycle trails only after the NPS undergoes the same planning 
and decision-making process that was required by NPS regulations before 
allowing traditional bicycles on those trails. Another commenter 
suggested that e-bikes be allowed only for those who need motorized 
assistance and then only by permit.
    NPS Response: NPS regulations promulgated in 1987 required the NPS 
to issue a special regulation, specific to the individual NPS unit, if 
bicycles were to be used outside of developed areas. The NPS adopted 
this special regulation requirement to ensure maximum public input on 
decisions to allow traditional bicycles outside of developed areas. In 
2012, the NPS revised the process for allowing bicycles to focus on 
park planning and environmental compliance under the National 
Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), rather than the special rulemaking 
process. See 77 FR 39927. NPS regulations still require notice-and-
comment rulemaking to allow bicycles on new trails outside of developed 
areas. As discussed above, the thorough process in today's bicycle 
regulations at 36 CFR 4.30 ensure that traditional bicycles are allowed 
in park areas only where the impacts of such use have been thoroughly 
considered. Based on the available studies, the NPS believes that 
incremental impacts from e-bike use in a particular location would not 
be substantially different than already occurring impacts from 
traditional bicycles. For this reason, the NPS does not find it 
necessary to require in every instance notice-and-comment rulemaking or 
the specific planning processes and environmental compliance measures 
that may have been required when traditional bicycles were allowed in 
the first place. Superintendents are required by NEPA to evaluate the 
impacts of any decision to allow e-bikes and the pathway of compliance 
will be tailored to the circumstances of each decision. Superintendents 
are encouraged to engage with the public prior to allowing e-bikes so 
that they can better understand potential impacts to resources and 
visitors, support for, and controversy associated with, allowing e-
bikes.
    The use of e-bikes is not the type of visitor use that would 
justify the regulatory and administrative burdens associated with a 
permit requirement. As long as the superintendent has determined that a 
location is appropriate for e-bike use, visitors will be free to use e-
bikes in that location subject to the prescriptions in this rule.
    29. Commenter: One commenter stated that decisions to close a 
location or otherwise restrict the use of e-bikes under the 
superintendent's discretionary authority in paragraph (i)(7) of the 
rule should be subject to compliance with NEPA and the rule should 
state that as an affirmative requirement.
    NPS Response: The NPS requires that superintendents act in 
accordance with applicable law and policy. This is true in every case 
whether or not this requirement is stated explicitly. If a decision to 
close or otherwise restrict the use of e-bikes warrants a compliance 
measure be taken under NEPA or under any other applicable law or 
policy, the superintendent must take that measure. This does not need 
to be affirmatively stated in the rule for it to be required.

Compliance With Other Laws, Executive Orders and Department Policy

Regulatory Planning and Review (Executive Orders 12866 and 13563)

    Executive Order 12866 provides that the Office of Information and 
Regulatory Affairs (OIRA) in the Office of Management and Budget will 
review all significant rules. The OIRA has determined that the final 
rule is not a significant regulatory action as defined by Executive 
Order 12866.
    Executive Order 13563 reaffirms the principles of E.O. 12866 while 
calling for improvements in the nation's regulatory system to promote 
predictability, to reduce uncertainty, and to use the best, most 
innovative, and least burdensome tools for achieving regulatory ends. 
The executive order directs agencies to consider regulatory approaches 
that reduce burdens and maintain flexibility and freedom of choice for 
the public where these approaches are relevant, feasible, and 
consistent with regulatory objectives. Executive Order 13563 emphasizes 
further that regulations must be based on the best available science 
and that the rulemaking process must allow for public participation and 
an open exchange of ideas. The NPS has developed this rule in a manner 
consistent with these requirements.

Reducing Regulation and Controlling Regulatory Costs (Executive Order 
13771).

    Enabling regulations are considered deregulatory under guidance 
implementing E.O. 13771 (M-17-21). This rule addresses regulatory 
uncertainty regarding the use of electric bicycles in the National Park 
System by clearly stating that they may be used where traditional 
bicycles are allowed when designated by the superintendent.

Regulatory Flexibility Act

    This rule will not have a significant economic effect on a 
substantial number of small entities under the Regulatory Flexibility 
Act (5 U.S.C. 601 et seq.). This certification is based on information 
contained in the economic analyses found in the report entitled ``Draft 
Cost-Benefit and Regulatory Flexibility Threshold Analyses: Proposed 
Regulations Addressing the Designation of Electric Bicycle Use in Units 
of the National Park System''. The report is available on 
www.regulations.gov in Docket ID: NPS-2020-0001.

Small Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act

    This rule is not a major rule under 5 U.S.C. 804(2). This rule:
    (a) Does not have an annual effect on the economy of $100 million 
or more.
    (b) Will not cause a major increase in costs or prices for 
consumers, individual industries, Federal, State, or local government 
agencies, or geographic regions.
    (c) Does not have significant adverse effects on competition, 
employment, investment, productivity, innovation, or the ability of 
U.S.-based enterprises to compete with foreign-based enterprises.

Unfunded Mandates Reform Act

    This rule does not impose an unfunded mandate on State, local, or 
tribal governments or the private sector of more than $100 million per 
year. The

[[Page 69186]]

rule does not have a significant or unique effect on State, local or 
tribal governments or the private sector. It addresses public use of 
national park lands, and imposes no requirements on other agencies or 
governments. A statement containing the information required by the 
Unfunded Mandates Reform Act (2 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.) is not required.

Takings (Executive Order 12630)

    This rule does not effect a taking of private property or otherwise 
have takings implications under Executive Order 12630. A takings 
implication assessment is not required.

Federalism (Executive Order 13132)

    Under the criteria in section 1 of Executive Order 13132, the rule 
does not have sufficient federalism implications to warrant the 
preparation of a federalism summary impact statement. This rule only 
affects the use of electric bicycles on federally-administered lands. 
It has no outside effects on other areas. A federalism summary impact 
statement is not required.

Civil Justice Reform (Executive Order 12988)

    This rule complies with the requirements of Executive Order 12988. 
This rule:
    (a) Meets the criteria of section 3(a) requiring that all 
regulations be reviewed to eliminate errors and ambiguity and be 
written to minimize litigation; and
    (b) Meets the criteria of section 3(b)(2) requiring that all 
regulations be written in clear language and contain clear legal 
standards.

Consultation With Indian Tribes (Executive Order 13175 and Department 
Policy)

    The Department of the Interior strives to strengthen its 
government-to-government relationship with Indian Tribes through a 
commitment to consultation with Indian tribes and recognition of their 
right to self-governance and tribal sovereignty. The NPS has evaluated 
this rule under the criteria in Executive Order 13175 and under the 
Department's tribal consultation policy and have determined that tribal 
consultation is not required because the rule will have no substantial 
direct effect on federally recognized Indian tribes.

Paperwork Reduction Act

    This rule does not contain information collection requirements, and 
a submission to the Office of Management and Budget under the Paperwork 
Reduction Act is not required. The NPS may not conduct or sponsor and 
you are not required to respond to a collection of information unless 
it displays a currently valid OMB control number.

National Environmental Policy Act of 1969

Categorical Exclusion Applies

    This rule does not constitute a major Federal action significantly 
affecting the quality of the human environment. A detailed statement 
under NEPA is not required because the rule is covered by a categorical 
exclusion. The NPS has determined the rule is categorically excluded 
under 43 CFR 46.210(i) which applies to ``policies, directives, 
regulations, and guidelines: That are of an administrative, financial, 
legal, technical, or procedural nature; or whose environmental effects 
are too broad, speculative, or conjectural to lend themselves to 
meaningful analysis and will later be subject to the NEPA process, 
either collectively or case-by-case.''
    This regulation meets both prongs of this categorical exclusion. 
First, the rule is administrative, legal, and procedural in nature 
because it simply clarifies and codifies in regulation that 
superintendents have the authority to allow e-bikes in their units but 
does not itself take any action or require superintendents to take any 
action in their park units. Further, the regulation simply clarifies 
and resolves existing ambiguity regarding superintendents' discretion 
to allow e-bikes in parks, rather than explicitly transitioning e-bikes 
from a stricter management regime to a more relaxed one. Prior to this 
regulation, NPS regulations were unclear as to how e-bikes were 
regulated as neither the regulatory definition of ``motor vehicles'' 
nor ``bicycles'' explicitly included e-bikes. Due in part to this 
ambiguity, most park compendiums did not specifically address e-bikes 
until the NPS recently determined in Policy Memorandum 19-01 that e-
bikes should be treated in a similar manner to traditional bicycles. 
This regulation simply resolves this ambiguity in the NPS's regulations 
and codifies the decision made in the policy memorandum but does not 
change the regulatory treatment of e-bikes from one established 
management regime to another in a way that would result in an expanded 
range of potential environmental impacts.
    Second, this regulation's environmental effects are too broad, 
speculative, or conjectural to lend themselves to meaningful analysis 
and the environmental effects of allowing e-bikes in specific parks 
will be or have already been subject to NEPA analysis on a park-by-park 
basis. Each park unit has its own enabling legislation, unique 
resources that must be protected, and specific circumstances related to 
visitor use, trails, and bicycles use that must be considered prior to 
determining whether e-bike use should be allowed. Also, the regulation 
allows park superintendents to designate the specific roads and trails 
that e-bikes may be allowed on, and authorizes them to set restrictions 
on the classes, speed, and other aspects of e-bikes use where they are 
authorized. Given the wide variety of resources, terrains, and visitor 
use patterns in parks across the country, as well as the broad 
discretion to determine the scope of e-bike use at the park level, 
conducting NEPA analysis at the National Park System level would be too 
speculative and imprecise to make definitive statements about the level 
of impacts. For this reason, an evaluation of environmental impacts 
under NEPA would therefore be ineffective at the System level.
    Many units of the National Park System already allow the use of e-
bikes where traditional bicycles are allowed under the direction of the 
Policy Memorandum. The Policy Memorandum required those units to 
evaluate the environmental impacts of allowing e-bikes under NEPA. 
Because traditional bicycles were already an established presence in 
areas where e-bikes were recently allowed, traditional bicycles were 
part of the baseline of existing conditions from which the 
environmental impacts of e-bikes were measured. Therefore, the impacts 
potentially caused by the implementation of the Policy Memorandum were 
limited only to those impacts from e-bikes that differ from the 
existing impacts of traditional bicycles. As a result, for most units a 
categorical exclusion has applied.
    In some units of the National Park System, the superintendent may 
have not yet opened bicycle trails to e-bikes, or may have closed a 
location to the use of e-bikes or otherwise restricted their use. In 
these units, any future decision to allow e-bikes in a new location or 
manner will be subject to an evaluation of the environmental impacts of 
that decision at that time. This will also be true for locations where, 
in the future, traditional bicycles and e-bikes are introduced for the 
first time. If a superintendent proposes to designate an administrative 
road or trail for e-bike use where traditional bicycles are not yet 
allowed, the superintendent will

[[Page 69187]]

need to follow the same procedural steps in order to designate those 
locations for bicycle and e-bike use. In both circumstances described 
above, the environmental effects of this rule are too broad to be 
analyzed at the National Park System level and environmental analysis 
under NEPA is best conducted at the park level.
    The NPS has also determined that the rule does not involve any of 
the extraordinary circumstances listed in 43 CFR 46.215 that would 
require further analysis under NEPA.

Response to NEPA Comments

    Several commenters asserted that the NPS has failed to conduct a 
proper analysis of the foreseeable impacts of this rule and that the 
preparation of an environmental assessment or environmental impact 
statement is required. The NPS disagrees with this interpretation of 
NEPA and believes the categorical exclusion cited above is appropriate 
for this rule. Further, some commenters have requested that the NPS 
conduct a programmatic NEPA review. CEQ has stated that agencies have 
discretion to determine whether a programmatic approach is appropriate. 
In this case, for reasons discussed below, and in light of the fact 
that the categorical exclusion cited above requires a case-by-case NEPA 
review at the park level before e-bike use could be authorized at any 
specific park unit, the NPS does not believe a programmatic approach is 
appropriate.
    The framework established by this rule provides superintendents 
with an opportunity to evaluate the effects of e-bike use at the park 
level, where more detailed information about potential effects is 
available, prior to allowing such use. Superintendents who decide to 
allow e-bikes in a park area must base that decision on reasonably 
obtainable scientific, technical, and economic data, and other 
information. Research and data on impacts and compatibility of e-bikes 
is still being developed. Available research, some of which was 
highlighted by commenters, indicates that certain classes of e-bikes 
have similar impacts to trails and other trail users as traditional 
bicycles. When e-bikes are considered at the park level, user 
conflicts, resource impacts, and other issues specific to each park 
unit could influence a superintendent's decision to allow them or not.
    This rule does not require that e-bikes be allowed anywhere in the 
National Park System. As noted above, units of the National Park System 
vary significantly in terms of the criteria that would influence the 
decision to allow e-bikes. Further, each park unit has its own enabling 
legislation, unique resources that must be protected, and specific 
circumstances related to visitor use, trails, and bicycles use that 
must be considered prior to determining whether e-bike use should be 
allowed. This would make a comprehensive NEPA analysis too broad, 
speculative, or conjectural to lend itself to a meaningful analysis, 
rendering such an analysis ineffective. Addressing potential 
environmental and social impacts are most meaningful at the park level. 
Superintendents will consider the suitability of e-bike use on specific 
roads and trails through subsequent analysis consistent with the 
requirements of NEPA and other applicable laws (e.g., Endangered 
Species Act, Clean Water Act, National Historic Preservation Act) and 
policies. The regulatory framework established by this rule will allow 
superintendents to develop site-specific design features and mitigation 
strategies to reduce or negate potential adverse impacts, as needed.
    Some commenters disagreed that none of the extraordinary 
circumstances listed under 43 CFR 46.215 apply to this rule. These 
commenters stated that this rule will have significant impacts on (1) 
public health and safety; (2) natural and cultural resources; (3) 
properties eligible for listing on the National Register of Historic 
Places; and (4) species and designated critical habitat for species 
listed, or proposed to be listed, under the Endangered Species Act 
(ESA). As stated above, this rule is not self-executing in the sense 
that it does not mandate the use of e-bikes anywhere in the National 
Park System. For this reason, the rule itself would not result in any 
physical impacts to park resources let alone significant impacts on any 
of the items identified in 43 CFR 46.215. Decisions to allow e-bikes in 
park areas will be subject to the NEPA process at the park level just 
like all other decisions that could have an effect on the human 
environment. Applying the NEPA process at a park-specific level will 
allow the NPS to evaluate detailed information on the potential effects 
of e-bike use in a particular park, consult with the U.S. Fish and 
Wildlife Service regarding impacts to endangered species, and develop 
site-specific project design features and mitigation strategies, if 
needed.
    In addition to the extraordinary circumstances in 43 CFR 46.215 
that are tied to impacts, commenters also stated that this rule will 
have highly controversial environmental effects or involve unresolved 
conflicts concerning alternative uses of available resources; and have 
highly uncertain and potentially significant environmental effects or 
involve unique or unknown environmental risks. Commenters also stated 
that the rule will establish a precedent for future action or represent 
a decision in principle about future actions with potentially 
significant environmental effects; and have a direct relationship to 
other actions with individually insignificant but cumulatively 
significant environmental effects.
    With regard to controversy, 43 CFR 46.215(c) pertains to whether 
the environmental effects are highly controversial. As stated in the 
Department of the Interior NEPA regulations, ``[c]ontroversial refers 
to circumstances where a substantial dispute exists as to the 
environmental consequences of the proposed action and does not refer to 
the existence of opposition to a proposed action, the effect of which 
is relatively undisputed.'' 43 CFR 46.30. While e-bikes are still 
relatively new, there are a growing number of studies investigating e-
bike use. The NPS's review of the current research shows that there 
does not appear to be any substantial disagreement or differing 
assumptions among scientists that affect the interpretation of evidence 
in this emerging body of literature. Overall, e-bikes are more like 
traditional bicycles than motor vehicles, and generally cause the same 
types and levels of impacts as traditional bikes. Furthermore, the rule 
would not result in unresolved conflicts concerning alternative uses of 
available resources. While the rule clarifies that e-bikes should be 
treated in a similar manner to traditional bicycles, it does not 
authorize any consumptive or exclusive use of park resources. It merely 
allows a new type of use on bicycle trails that is substantively 
similar to bicycles but does not prohibit or restrict any other user 
group.
    This rule would not have highly uncertain, and potentially 
significant environmental effects, or involve unique or unknown 
environmental risks. First, as stated above, the rule itself does not 
authorize nor mandate e-bike use at any park unit and therefore without 
additional action at the park level, no impacts would occur. In 
addition, as stated above, a review of available information indicates 
the impacts of e-bikes are generally similar to impacts from bicycle 
use and there is no information indicating that the additional impacts 
from e-bikes may be significant. This is reinforced by the fact that 
most NPS units that have allowed e-bikes and have completed a site-
specific NEPA review have applied a

[[Page 69188]]

categorical exclusion. While the use of e-bikes is relatively new, the 
available literature demonstrates a consensus regarding what potential 
impacts may be, and there is nothing to indicate that the impacts of e-
bike use would be highly uncertain.
    This rule does not establish a precedent for future action or 
represent a decision in principle about future actions with potentially 
significant environmental effects. The extraordinary circumstance 
listed at 43 CFR 46.215(e) requires both a precedent or decision in 
principle for future action and for the precedent or decision in 
principle to have potentially significant environmental effects. 
Neither criteria apply. This rule does not establish a precedent for 
future action nor make any decisions about future actions. As discussed 
above, it is not self-executing in the sense that it does not mandate 
the use of e-bikes anywhere in the National Park System; it merely 
authorizes superintendents to allow them where traditional bicycles are 
allowed. The Superintendent at each park unit will have the discretion 
to allow e-bike use--or not--on a case-by-case basis. The discussion 
above addresses why this rule would be not result in any significant 
impacts.
    The NPS also disagrees with the comment that the rule would have a 
direct relationship to other actions with individually insignificant 
but cumulatively significant environmental effects. Impacts to 
resources and visitors would not occur on a national scale; rather, 
impacts would be experienced by visitors at each park unit at the time 
of their visit and resources affected would be at the park level, not 
at a national scale. Therefore, there would not be any meaningful 
``cumulative impacts'' at a national scale, that are greater than the 
sum of the individual park-level impacts. Furthermore, as discussed 
above, due to the specific circumstances at each park unit, the NPS 
does not believe a programmatic NEPA review is warranted.

Effects on the Energy Supply (Executive Order 13211)

    This rule is not a significant energy action under the definition 
in Executive Order 13211. A Statement of Energy Effects in not 
required.

References

    A complete list of all resources reviewed and considered during the 
development of this rulemaking is available at https://www.regulations.gov at Docket No. NPS-2020-0001.

List of Subjects

36 CFR Part 1

    National parks, Penalties, Reporting and recordkeeping 
requirements, Signs and symbols.

36 CFR Part 4

    National parks, Traffic regulations.

    In consideration of the foregoing, the National Park Service amends 
36 CFR parts 1 and 4 as set forth below:

PART 1--GENERAL PROVISIONS

0
1. The authority citation for part 1 continues to read as follows:

    Authority: 54 U.S.C. 100101, 100751, 320102.


0
2. In Sec.  1.4 amend paragraph (a) by adding, in alphabetical order, 
the definition for ``Electric bicycle'' and revising the definition for 
``Motor vehicle'' to read as follows:


Sec.  1.4  What terms do I need to know?

    (a) * * *
* * * * *
    Electric bicycle means a two- or three-wheeled cycle with fully 
operable pedals and an electric motor of not more than 750 watts that 
meets the requirements of one of the following three classes:
    (1) ``Class 1 electric bicycle'' shall mean an electric bicycle 
equipped with a motor that provides assistance only when the rider is 
pedaling, and that ceases to provide assistance when the bicycle 
reaches the speed of 20 miles per hour.
    (2) ``Class 2 electric bicycle'' shall mean an electric bicycle 
equipped with a motor that may be used exclusively to propel the 
bicycle, and that is not capable of providing assistance when the 
bicycle reaches the speed of 20 miles per hour.
    (3) ``Class 3 electric bicycle'' shall mean an electric bicycle 
equipped with a motor that provides assistance only when the rider is 
pedaling, and that ceases to provide assistance when the bicycle 
reaches the speed of 28 miles per hour.
* * * * *
    Motor vehicle means every vehicle that is self-propelled and every 
vehicle that is propelled by electric power, but not operated on rails 
or water, except an electric bicycle, a snowmobile, and a motorized 
wheelchair.
* * * * *

PART 4--VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC SAFETY

0
3. The authority citation for part 4 continues to read as follows:

    Authority: 54 U.S.C. 100101, 100751, 320102.


0
4. Amend Sec.  4.30 by adding paragraph (i) to read as follows:


Sec.  4.30  Bicycles

* * * * *
    (i) Electric bicycles. (1) The use of an electric bicycle may be 
allowed on park roads, parking areas, and administrative roads and 
trails that are otherwise open to bicycles. The Superintendent will 
designate the areas open to electric bicycles, or specific classes of 
electric bicycles, and notify the public pursuant to 36 CFR 1.7.
    (2) The use of an electric bicycle is prohibited in locations not 
designated by the Superintendent under paragraph (i)(1) of this 
section.
    (3) Except where use of motor vehicles by the public is allowed, 
using the electric motor exclusively to move an electric bicycle for an 
extended period of time without pedaling is prohibited.
    (4) Possessing an electric bicycle in a wilderness area established 
by Federal statute is prohibited.
    (5) A person operating or possessing an electric bicycle is subject 
to the following sections of this part that apply to bicycles: 
Sec. Sec.  4.12, 4.13, 4.20, 4.21, 4.22, 4.23, and 4.30(h)(3)-(5).
    (6) Except as specified in this chapter, the use of an electric 
bicycle is governed by State law, which is adopted and made a part of 
this section. Any act in violation of State law adopted by this 
paragraph is prohibited.
    (7) Superintendents may limit or restrict or impose conditions on 
electric bicycle use, or may close any park road, parking area, 
administrative road, trail, or portion thereof to such electric bicycle 
use, or terminate such condition, closure, limit or restriction after:
    (i) Taking into consideration public health and safety, natural and 
cultural resource protection, and other management activities and 
objectives; and
    (ii) Notifying the public through one or more methods listed in 36 
CFR 1.7, including in the superintendent's compendium (or written 
compilation) of discretionary actions referred to in 36 CFR 1.7(b).

George Wallace,
Assistant Secretary for Fish and Wildlife and Parks.
[FR Doc. 2020-22129 Filed 10-30-20; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4312-52-P