No More Helmets
Date: Feb 26th, 2005 9:23:14 pm - Subscribe
Mood: spunky
{Following the Governor's logic, I think that people who have two years of riding and driving experience should be allowed to not wear their seatbelts in their cars and not have to wear life jackets on boats.}
By ERIK SCHELZIG - The Associated Press
CHARLESTON, W.Va. -- With a biker in the Governor’s Mansion, supporters of helmet-free motorcycle riding in West Virginia may have better prospects of getting legislation passed than in previous years.
A bill introduced in the Senate on Friday proposes to lift the helmet requirement for any rider age 21 or older who has at least two years riding experience.
Gov. Joe Manchin, who rides a Harley-Davidson Road King Classic, said he favors lifting the helmet law to encourage tourism and economic development in the state.
"The economic opportunity upside is unbelievable," Manchin said. "It’s tremendous what people want to bring to us in terms of rallies."
On the Net
West Virginia Legislature
The bill (SB293) was introduced by Senate Majority Leader Truman Chafin, who also rides a Harley-Davidson.
"It’s a safety issue, I know, but for responsible adults, I believe they should have the option," said Chafin, D-Mingo. "I think people who ride know that there’s no second chance on a motorcycle."
Chafin, whose previous attempts to change the helmet laws were unsuccessful, said he was encouraged by the governor’s riding experience.
House Judiciary Chairman Jon Amores, who rides a Ducati, said he was less convinced about the need to lift helmet requirements.
"As a citizen, as a motorcyclist, as a fan of the sport of motorcycle racing, I think helmets are a valuable part of a rider’s attire," said Amores, D-Kanwha. "Anybody who appreciates taking care of their head, whether they’re riding a touring bike or a sport bike, should appreciate helmets."
But Amores acknowledged that "over the last few years it has become a tourism issue," and said he’d consider the proposed changes.
"I think the governor, who is not just a weekend warrior, but is really a fine rider, might be the X-factor in this debate," Amores said.
Manchin said he understands that wearing helmets is the safer option.
"But there’s those days and those certain situations where you want that freedom," he said. "If you’ve ever ridden, you’d know what I’m talking about."
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