Atlanta mayor stops issuing scooter permits amid safety concerns

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Atlanta’s mayor issued an executive order Thursday prohibiting any new e-scooter permits after recent deaths and accidents have raised safety concerns.

Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms said she will introduce legislation at the Aug. 5 Atlanta City Council meeting “to address the long-term impacts these devices levy against the City’s infrastructure and public safety.”

The order does not affect companies with existing permits.

The mayor issued the following statement:

“Across the nation, municipalities are dealing with the sudden and unforeseen impact these devices have had on our communities. While some municipalities have banned the devices altogether, the City of Atlanta acted in good faith to work with the private sector to explore innovative solutions to ease existing commuting strains. However, as Atlanta has seen three scooter related deaths, this complex issue requires a more thorough and robust dialogue.”

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