KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Some Missouri lawmakers want to change the state’s motorcycle helmet laws to promote tourism, and in turn economic development.
These lawmakers are in favor of suspending Missouri’s helmet requirement for the month of August each year to coincide with the annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally in South Dakota, which draws hundreds of thousands of bikers. These bikers often skip passing through Missouri because of the helmet law. Lawmakers say the state is missing out on a lot of money as a result.
Not only is the money important, but also the freedom of choice.
It’s these same lawmakers who also are pushing for another measure which would lift the helmet requirement for all riders 21 years and older at all times. However, there are lawmakers and outside groups who oppose changing the helmet requirements even in the slightest.
The medical association argues the rate of head injuries will skyrocket.
The legislature passed a bill in 2009 repealing Missouri’s helmet law, but Governor Jay Nixon vetoed it citing concerns about increased health care costs and safety issues.
