Why Minnesota’s E-Bike Rebate Program Is Being Delayed This Year

You might remember that about a year ago, Minnesota's e-bike rebate program launched - albeit to a rocky start. The multi-year program is being delayed once again this year, but for different reasons this time around.

The first year of the program launched at the beginning of June last year, with the huge demand overwhelming the website, causing it to crash catastrophically. After working through the technical challenges, the state agency managing the voucher applications got things sorted out for a second attempt last July.

The 2025 edition of the program is being delayed, but due to some different reasons.

Wait, what is this e-bike program again?

If you don't remember what this program is, the State of Minnesota allocated $2 million for 2024 and another $2 million for 2025 to put toward a voucher program that is designed to cover up to 75% of the cost of buying a new e-bike for eligible Minnesotans.

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The program (which you can read about in greater detail here) allows Minnesotans to apply for a voucher that covers a percentage of the cost of a new e-bike up to $1,500, depending on the applicant's income. These vouchers can then be redeemed at participating retailers.

Why is the 2025 Minnesota e-bike program being delayed?

The Minnesota Department of Revenue, the state government agency running the program, says they have to delay the second year of this program due to some changes the Minnesota Legislature made.

The statement on the Minnesota Department of Revenue's website says the legislature made some changes during the most recent legislative session that affect the rebate program.

The changes, as were reported this spring, included a proposal to change how the vouchers are awarded. Rather than being a simple application, it would make it a lottery you apply to be part of, due to the level of popularity of the program.

The agency is reviewing these changes, which is forcing them to delay the rollout of this year's application window to later this year.

When will the 2025 Minnesota e-bike rebate application window open?

As of right now, there is no set date. The Minnesota Department of Revenue says they expect this year's rollout to happen "in late summer or early fall" of this year.