The St. Charles Parish Legislative Committee held off on moving forward a proposed ordinance that would set new rules for motorized bicycles, motor-driven cycles, electric-assisted bicycles, electric scooters and electric dirt bikes, sending the measure back for more work rather than introducing it for a vote.

The ordinance, numbered 2026-0218, was presented by the Sheriff's Office in a draft that covered speed limits, helmet and equipment requirements and rules for riding on parish roads. Committee members raised a series of concerns about how the ordinance was written and how it would be enforced, and agreed the draft needs to be revised before it comes back to the committee.

One section drew particular attention: language about using cell phones and other "wireless telecommunications devices" while riding. Committee members said the draft could be read as an outright ban on phone use, which they said would be a problem for riders, including some in golf carts without speedometers, who use phone apps to track their speed. The intent, members said, is to require hands-free use rather than bar phones altogether, and that language will be rewritten.

Members also flagged wording requiring riders to stay "on the right side of the roadway," saying it needs to be clarified to make clear that riders must travel with the flow of traffic. One member described near-collisions with scooters riding against traffic in a bike lane.

A proposal to bar minors from operating these vehicles after sunset was raised but not settled. One member supported the idea, citing visibility concerns after dark. The official presenting the ordinance said that decision would be up to the committee, and noted that a requirement for reflectors already addresses some nighttime visibility concerns.

On enforcement, the Sheriff's Office said it plans to start with public education and informational videos rather than heavy enforcement, though the office acknowledged that approach may need to be revisited if dangerous riding continues. Committee members and the Sheriff's Office also agreed to simplify technical language in the draft that is based on state statute, and council members were invited to co-sponsor the ordinance once it is revised.

Two residents spoke during the public hearing. A resident described a frightening incident in which a child on a bike or minibike nearly grabbed his granddaughter, and said he supports the new ordinance. A Hahnville resident spoke about fast-moving road bikes and riders he has seen in his neighborhood.

The ordinance was not introduced for a vote at this meeting. It will need to come back before the Legislative Committee for formal introduction, and would then go to a public hearing before the full council before any final vote.