HELMET OR NO HELMET – THAT IS THE QUESTION FOR LAWMAKERS

bitmapA proposal that seeks to do away with Tennessee’s motorcycle helmet requirement has been revived and is advancing in the state Legislature.

The measure sponsored by Republican Sen. Kerry Roberts of Springfield passed the Senate Transportation Committee 5-4 on Wednesday. The measure failed in the same committee last month after it received a 4-4 vote.

However, the sponsor was able to get a majority of signatures from lawmakers on the nine-member panel to get the measure back on the committee’s calendar.

Under the proposal, motorcycle riders at least 21 years old would be able to decide if they want to wear a helmet.

Roberts’ bill now goes to the Senate Finance Committee. The companion bill is awaiting a vote in the House Finance Subcommittee