Source: Helsinki Times

The Finnish Parliament’s Transport and Communications Committee has proposed new nationwide regulations for electric scooter use, including a minimum age requirement of 15 years. The recommendation is part of a broader micromobility policy framework approved on Friday 16 May.

The proposed age limit follows a series of accidents involving minors, some resulting in serious injuries or fatalities. If enacted, the rule would apply to both shared and privately owned e-scooters. Electric bicycles would not be subject to the age restriction.

Previously, local authorities were responsible for setting age limits, but the Constitutional Affairs Committee advised that such measures should be standardised across the country. The Finnish Road Safety Council had recommended the adoption of a national age limit in 2024.

The draft legislation also introduces a ban on operating e-scooters while intoxicated. A legal blood alcohol content limit of 0.05 percent, mirroring that for motor vehicle drivers, would apply to users of light electric vehicles, including both e-scooters and e-bikes.

While the use of helmets will not be mandated, the legislation includes a strong recommendation encouraging their use in an effort to reduce head injuries and improve overall safety.

Additional provisions would require micromobility rental companies to obtain operating permits from individual municipalities. This measure aims to address concerns related to parking practices and congestion on sidewalks in urban areas.

The proposal will now proceed to the full Parliament for consideration in a plenary session.