Oregon Could Launch E-Bike Rebate Program

A bill proposed in the Oregon state legislature would establish a rebate program for electric bikes and accessories such as helmets and lights, reports Michael Brady in Smart Cities Dive. The bill’s sponsor, Rep. Karin Power, says the bill is meant to encourage transportation diversification and put e-bikes within reach of more Oregonians. Power says e-bikes can help lower the city’s carbon footprint and provide an efficient, affordable transportation option for commuters. “Incentivizing e-bikes is one way we can creatively foster greater transportation justice and equity,” says Power. 

Through the program, “Only purchases from authorized, in-state retailers would be eligible for rebates, and rebate recipients would need to own their e-bikes ‘for at least one year after receiving the rebate,’ according to the bill.”

Rebates on e-bikes are proving hugely popular in places like Denver, where applications for the city’s rebate program get snapped up almost as quickly as they are released.