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The New York State Senate debated legislation to establish a Ride Clean rebate program offering up to $1,100 in point-of-sale rebates for e-bikes and e-scooters through the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority. Sponsor Sen. Salazar argued the program would promote accessible, affordable transportation that reduces emissions and traffic deaths, citing Jersey City's achievement of zero traffic deaths in 2022 partly due to increased bike usage. However, the bill faced significant criticism from Sen. Walczyk, who contended the program would increase electricity bills for all New Yorkers while subsidizing products with potentially dangerous lithium-ion batteries. Walczyk raised concerns that the program lacks the accountability safeguards of the existing Drive Clean vehicle rebate program and could allow out-of-state residents to benefit from New York ratepayers' money. Sen. Helming expressed support for the bill's intent but opposed its current form, citing the absence of caps on individual rebates, means-testing provisions, and clarity on business eligibility. Helming warned that businesses could potentially purchase multiple bikes, claim rebates, and resell the bikes without holding them for any period of time. Following debate, the bill was moved to the noncontroversial calendar for further consideration.

The New York State Senate passed legislation establishing a Ride Clean rebate program to subsidize electric bicycle purchases, with the bill winning approval 47-15 on a roll call vote. Sponsored by Sen. Salazar, the measure would direct the State Energy Research and Development Authority to administer rebates for e-bike purchases. Supporters argued the program would reduce road maintenance costs and encourage New Yorkers to abandon cars for cleaner transportation, while opponents raised safety concerns about lithium-ion battery fires in residential settings. Sen. Rhoads cited 104 e-bike fires in New York City last year and 22 fires causing 36 injuries and 2 deaths as of late February, calling for safety standards before the state subsidizes home use of the devices. He also questioned the economics, noting that both individual purchasers and businesses could claim $1,100 rebates per bike. Sen. Ramos countered that fires stem from second-use lithium-ion batteries purchased by underpaid delivery workers, and urged banning those batteries rather than e-bikes. Sen. May supported the bill as economically sensible, noting reduced road wear and environmental benefits. Fifteen senators, mostly Republicans, voted against the measure.