As other members said, there are lots of delivery people using e-bikes in NYC. There are also pedicabs that use them. One councilwoman who was in favor of prohibiting the use of pedicabs stated "If we can't abolish them, we should stop them from using motors". Here's an elected official who doesn't know the motors are illegal to begin with.
At any rate, the state legislature votes on the ebike bill every January (Since 2002 I believe) but it get stuck in the senate transportation committee. If and when it's finally passed, it will basically be the same as the federal law. I just found out one of the senators I know is on that committee, so I'm goiung to talk to him as soon as possible. IMHO, with the way things are politically, it will have to be passed soon.