As spring approaches, millions of New Yorkers are oiling their chains and pumping up their tires, getting to ready to ride their bikes for fun with friends and families, and ride to work, errands and events. But only traditional bicycles, not electric or "e-bikes" will hit the pavement this year, unless the state Legislature and governor act.

Unlike 21 other states, riding an e-bike in New York is illegal, due to an outdated provision in New York's Vehicle and Traffic Law. Ironically, it is legal to sell e-bikes, as this is governed by federal law, but illegal to ride them, which is governed by state law.

Electric bicycles are perfect not only for people looking for a car substitute, but for senior citizens, parents with children and people with physical limitations, because they provide increased mobility and an alternative transportation choice.

For the purposes of federal law, electric bicycles are consumer products that have been regulated identically to traditional bicycles since 2002, when federal law distinguished bicycles with low-power electric motors capable of reaching speeds of 20 mph or less, or electric bicycles, from motorcycles, mopeds and motor vehicles. New York state's law was never updated to conform to the federal standard and, consequently, electric bicycles are regulated like motorcycles, even though they are quiet, low speed and emissions-free.

New York is missing a golden opportunity, but fortunately, the Gov. Andrew Cuomo and the Legislature are considering legislation to fix this outdated law.

Electric bicycles operate nearly identically to a traditional human-powered bicycle, but are easier to pedal with assistance from a small, pedal-activated electric motor. Bicycle-riding of all forms improves the state's air quality, reduces traffic and parking congestion, reduces health care costs by improving personal health and is simply a great way to get around. Allowing e-bikes on the road would expand these benefits.

It would also be a boost for New York's small businesses. More than 200,000 e-bikes were sold in the U.S. in 2015, and this number is expected to increase by 10 percent annually. Bicycle retailers across the state, usually small business owners, would realize a significant increase in sales and revenue if the prohibition on riding e-bikes was lifted. And given the size of the potential New York e-bike market, lifting the e-bike ban could even entice a major manufacturer to locate here. E-bikes would also enhance visitation to, and enjoyment of, tourist destinations like state parks and the canal trails from tourists inside and outside of the state.

It's time to bring New York's electric bicycle laws into the 21st century. Promoting and expanding the use of bicycles, including e-bikes, is good for the environment, good for public health, and good for the economy.

Joe Martens of Glenmont is a former commissioner of the state Department of Environmental Conservation and currently a senior fellow at the Open Space Institute. Paul Winkeller of Slingerlands is executive director of the New York Bicycling Coalition.