Court Halts Holon Mayor's Ban on Shared E-Scooters

A significant legal challenge has stalled Holon Mayor Shai Kinin's sweeping decision to ban all shared electric scooters from the city, effective September 17, 2026. The Holon District Court has frozen the ban, ruling that the city cannot revoke operating permits for scooter companies without a proper, reasoned process. The municipality is now required to conduct extensive administrative work, due to be completed by October 15, to thoroughly examine safety and transportation aspects before any new decision is made.

Kinin's original directive sparked intense public debate. Supporters of the ban cited dangerous riding, blocked sidewalks, and a threat to pedestrians, especially the elderly and disabled, calling the scooters a "death trap." They viewed the ban as a necessary measure to protect walkers and prevent further accidents.

Conversely, thousands of regular users expressed anger, labeling the ban a collective punishment for the actions of a few. Many residents and soldiers relied on the shared scooters for quick, affordable travel, particularly for connecting with public transport amid existing delays and traffic. The Shared Scooter Association warned that a ban on regulated scooters would push users towards potentially more dangerous private scooters lacking safety features.

The municipality maintains that pedestrian safety and public order are top priorities. They plan to potentially replace shared scooters with shared electric bicycles and increase enforcement against private scooter use. For now, shared scooters will remain available in Holon at least until the administrative review concludes in mid-October.