Missouri Motorcyclists Would No Longer Need Helmets Under Approved House Bill
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Missouri Motorcyclists Would No Longer Need Helmets Under Approved House Bill

Date: April 7, 2016
By: Jack Morrisroe
State Capitol Bureau
Links: HB 1464

Intro: 
A Missouri House member argued Thursday for a measure allowing cyclists to ride without a helmet to stimulate tourism.
RunTime: 0:43
OutCue:  SOC

Wrap: An approved House measure would allow motorcyclists in the state to ride without a helmet, with minor restrictions.

Supporters said Missouri is losing tourism dollars to surrounding states that allow helmet-less cyclists. Andrew County Representative Delus Johnson said a similar measure in Michigan was effective.

Actuality:  JOHNSON1.WAV
Run Time: 00:06
Description: They created 2,700 jobs in tourism, because of the influx of motorcycle riders coming into that state.

Opponents said the measure puts a tax burden on the state's citizens, who would have to pay for the continued rehab and surgery for the unprotected in motorcycle accidents.

The law includes exceptions for inexperienced riders. The House bill passed by a vote of 103-43. 

Reporting from the state Capitol, I'm Jack Morrisroe.

 

Intro: 
A Missouri House Democrat said allowing motorcyclists to ride without a helmet would hurt the state and its people more than help.
RunTime: 0:40
OutCue:  SOC

Wrap: An approved House measure would allow motorcyclists in the state to ride without a helmet, with minor restrictions.

Opponents of the bill said the health risks of helmet-less cyclists are too great to allow. St. Louis County Representative Deb Lavender cautioned against the health hazard.

Actuality:  LAVENDER.WAV
Run Time: 00:08
Description: We can look at it as a jobs bill for hospitals, orthopedic surgeons, neurosurgeons, and certainly physical therapists. It does keep us in business.
Those in favor of the bill say people should have the freedom to wear a helmet or not as a law-abiding adult.

The law includes exceptions for inexperienced riders. The House bill passed by a vote of 103-43.

Reporting from the state Capitol, I'm Jack Morrisroe.