Alberta looking at allowing politicians to expense e-scooter, bike rides

Alberta politicians may soon have their electric scooter and bike rides covered by taxpayers, as a legislature committee explores expanding expense policies.

The bipartisan committee is studying whether to add e-scooters and e-bikes to the list of reimbursable travel expenses, which currently includes taxis, car rentals, and some airfare. The committee has passed a motion to investigate potential corporate agreements with providers like Lime and Bird Canada.

However, a report presented to the committee had previously recommended against such reimbursements, citing safety and insurance issues. Companies typically require riders to assume all risks, potentially leaving politicians and staff without coverage if injured. Despite these concerns, committee member Nolan Dyck believes the topic is worth exploring due to the quick and affordable nature of these transportation options, particularly in Alberta's larger cities.

Bird Canada expressed enthusiasm for discussing a ride program for the legislative assembly, noting their existing corporate agreements with various businesses and institutions.

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it’s a topic worth exploring further since it’s a quick and cheap transportation option, especially in Alberta’s big cities.