312 Sutter Street, Suite 608, San Francisco, CA 94108 • www.sfmms.org • P 415.561.0850 • F 415.561.0833 August 15, 2025
San Rafael City Council
1400 Fifth Avenue, Room 203
San Rafael, CA 94901
Dear Mayor Colin, and Council Members Llorens Gulati, Hill, Bushey, and Kertz, On behalf of the San Francisco Marin Medical Society (SFMMS) which represents the interests of approximately 3500 physician members practicing in San Francisco and Marin Counties, I am writing to offer our support for “Introduction of An Ordinance Adding Chapter 5.35 “Operation of Electric Mobility Devices” to the San Rafael Municipal Code to Regulate Electric Mobility Devices Within the City Limits of San Rafael.” (Agenda item 5a for the City Council Meeting of Monday August 18.)
Information provided to the Medical Society by our physician members indicates that the popularity of e-bikes has led to a significant increase in riders involved in crashes over the last three years, resulting in serious disability and death. Many of these physician members practice in Marin County and have treated these injuries firsthand. We believe the proposed ordinance will contribute to a reduction in injuries and fatalities related to the use of ebikes. We have also noted the strong support from the American College of Surgeons for similar ordinance in neighboring jurisdictions.
We are very pleased to offer our support for this proposed ordinance amendment regarding the operation of e-bike devices in San Rafael to promote safety and urge your “aye” vote.
Thank you for your leadership and partnership in reducing injuries and fatalities in our community.
Please do not hesitate to contact us with any questions you might have. Conrad Amenta, Executive Director of SFMMS, can be reached at [email protected], or (415) 706-3161.
Sincerely,
Jason Nau, MD
2025 President, San Francisco Marin Medical Society