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Tampa, FL - Florida high school students are playing a direct role in proposed state legislation aimed at increasing safety for young e-bike riders.
The initiative follows the death of a Freedom High School student who was involved in an e-bike accident without a helmet, according to information shared by classmates.
House Bill 667, filed by Rep. Susan Valdes of Tampa, would require anyone under 18 who operates or rides an electric bicycle to wear a helmet.
The bill was drafted with input from Freedom High School students participating in the Hillsborough County School District’s Ought To Be A Law program, which allows students to submit legislative ideas to state lawmakers.
Senior Maggie Takamatsu said she approached student government peers after learning about multiple incidents involving teenagers who allegedly died in e-bike crashes while not wearing helmets.
She said the recurring nature of these accidents motivated the group to take action.
The students presented their proposal in October and continued working with Valdes during the drafting process.
Junior Philip Ernst said speaking directly to lawmakers was a new experience, describing the process as significant and informative.
Valdes filed the bill with the students present and said their involvement demonstrates how young people can contribute to policymaking.
The bill will move next to committee review, where lawmakers and industry stakeholders may ask questions.
Valdes said she expects the students to participate in responding as the measure advances through the legislative process.