Legislation to repeal the State’s 50-year old motorcycle helmet law passed the Senate Wednesday 24-14. Seventeen Republicans and seven Democrats voted in favor of SB 291, sponsored by Senator Phil Pavlov (R-St. Clair). Nine Republicans and five Democrats voted no.
The Senate made two significant changes to the legislation. The first change adds an amendment requiring motorcyclists 21 years of age and older to carry $100,000 in insurance if they chose not to wear a helmet. There were earlier efforts to have the required insurance be $250,000.
The second change sunsets the helmet law repeal in four years and requires the Department of State to complete a study on increases in head injuries resulting from the law’s repeal.
During her eight years in office, former Michigan Governor Jennifer Granholm twice vetoed similar efforts. The legislation now moves to the House Committee on Transportation for consideration.