Motorcycle Helmet Law changes could mean dollars for Michigan
7:29 PM, Oct 12, 2007 |
Muskegon- A bill passed by the Michigan House of Representatives would allow some motorcyclists to ride without a helmet. It's a battle that has been waged since Michigan first required helmets. This time, supporters say the change could bring more tourist money to the state. The bill is still making its way through the legislature, but here's what it would do:
Motorcyclists over the age of 21 would be able to ride without a helmet if they pay for a special permit.To get that permit, a rider must have two years of riding experience, or go through a training class. If you're going to ride a motorcycle in
Michigan
, you need some gear, especially in cold weather. Hot Rod Harley Davidson in Muskegon sells it all, gloves, sunglasses, t-shirts, and helmets. Helmets may be the most controversial item Hot Rod sells. Motorcycle rider Timothy Flint of Muskegon thinks, “People should have a choice. If they want to go without a helmet they should be able to. If not, that's their choice." Michigan state law requires motorcyclists to wear helmets. But all of the surrounding states and Canada allow motorcyclists to go without a helmet. Many Michigan motorcyclists would like to see the state change its helmet law. The proposal in the legislature would allow Michigan riders with a special permit to ride without a helmet. Paul Winter, General Manager of Hot Rod Harley Davidson says that would attract more tourists to events like Bike Time in Muskegon. Winter says, “I think as this event grows, as I'm sure it will, having the possibility of not requiring helmets would be a huge benefit to the event. And I think it's the kind of event that brings tourism, people that come and spend money, they stay overnight, they eat in restaurants, they buy merchandise." So, while Winter is a staunch safety advocate, even he admits, "I confess that I ride without my helmet when I'm allowed to do so in other states." The question is how many people would come to Michigan to feel the wind in their hair? If the bill became law, riders would have to pay $100 a year for a special permit, or $200 for a three year permit. That could raise an estimated $25 million for the state. The bill passed the house Thursday and now goes on to the Senate. Governor Jennifer Granholm has promised to veto the bill.
Amy Fox
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