The Motorcycle Riders Foundation (MRF) is proud to support two new pieces of legislation introduced in Congress that would give adult motorcyclists in the District of Columbia the freedom to choose whether to wear a helmet.
H.R. 10067, introduced by Representative Derrick Van Orden (R-WI), and S. 5274, introduced by Senator Tim Sheehy (R-MT), are both known as the “Ride in Freedom Act.” The legislation would exercise Congress’s authority over District of Columbia laws under the Home Rule Act and remove the current helmet mandate for motorcyclists over the age of 18.
The MRF has long supported freedom of choice regarding motorcycle helmets. More than 30 states currently allow adult riders to make their own decision regarding helmet use, and the MRF believes that same freedom should extend to motorcyclists who live in or travel to the nation’s capital.
“These pieces of legislation would ensure that freedom so many motorcyclists experience when riding at home would also be possible in our nation’s capital,” said MRF President Kirk “Hardtail” Willard. “Americans should have the freedom to make their own decisions about motorcycle safety, and that freedom should not disappear when they cross into the District of Columbia.”
The MRF is proud to support both the House and Senate versions of the Ride in Freedom Act and looks forward to educating lawmakers about the issue. Particular attention will be given to members of Congress from the more than 30 states that recognize riders' helmet choice. For the thousands of motorcyclists who travel to Washington, D.C., each year, the issue is about more than local law. It is about ensuring that the riding freedoms available to them in their home states are respected when they visit the nation’s capital.
The MRF will continue working with lawmakers in both chambers to advance the Ride in Freedom Act and ensure that the voices of America’s motorcyclists are heard as Congress considers the future of motorcycle helmet policy in the District of Columbia.
All Information contained in this release is copyrighted. Reproduction permitted with attribution. Motorcycle Riders Foundation. All rights reserved.