OMNIBIKE BILL AB1909-WILL IT INCREASE SAFETY FOR CYCLISTS?

California transportation bill OmniBike AB1909 was signed by Gov. Gavin Newsom on September 16, 2022. The bill, authored by Assemblymember Laura Friedman, makes four crucial changes to California’s vehicle code that recognizes that car rules don’t always work for bikes. Modification of the vehicle code will help bicyclists and motorists share the road more safely, increase e-bike access, and legalize commonsense biking. When combined, the four changes to the vehicle code are seen as a significant step forward in recognizing the rights of bicyclists to have safe access to public bikeways and streets.

These four changes are set to take effect on January 1, 2024:

• Motorists are required to change lanes to pass: The 3-foot rule was passed in 2013. This law has been difficult to enforce and not enough space for comfort in some situations. The OmniBike Bill will require people in cars to change lanes when passing someone on a bike whenever feasible, just as if they were passing a car. The extra space will reduce near misses with clear instructions for cars to pass bikes safely.

• Expand access for people riding e-bikes: Currently, some or all e-bikes have been banned from certain bike trails and paths. The OmniBike Bill opens most bikeways to e-bikes, while still allowing communities to prohibit them from equestrian and hiking trails.

• Bikes can cross streets on pedestrian WALK signals: It is often safer for bicyclists to cross an intersection during the pedestrian walk signal. The OmniBike Bill makes this safe alternative legal. (Note-if AB2264 is signed, Caltrans walk signals will give pedestrians and bicyclists a 3- to 7-second head start on crossing the street.)

• No more bicycle licensing ordinances: Some cities and municipalities have laws requiring people to register their bikes and get a license. This law is rarely enforced, and some feel selectively used to harass bicyclists. The OmniBike Bill will stop cities and counties from enforcing this law across the state.

Do you think these new laws will increase bicycling safety? What changes would you make? We want to hear from you.