LINCOLN- A bill relating to motorcycles and the helmet laws surrounding them was advanced out of the Transportation and Telecommunications Committee. LB91 was introduced by State Sen. Ben Hansen of Blair, who also named it as his priority for the session. It advanced out of committee on a 5-2 vote.

If passed, the measure would Nebraska in a long list of states who have eliminated or started to relax helmet laws for motorcycle riders. In Nebraska, helmets have been required since 1989 despite multiple attempts to change the legislation. Hansen, a chiropractor and motorcycle rider, has argued that people should be free to decide if they want to take the risk of riding without a helmet.

To be eligible to drop the helmet under the bill, one must be 21 and complete a basic certification course by the Motorcycle Safety Foundation. Those passing through the state, may also drop the helmet if they have taken a similar class. Protective eyewear would become the new requirement if the bill is passed.

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