Michigan Senate Approves Motorcycle Helmet Law Change

A proposal to allow some motorcycle riders to go without a helmet has been approved by the Michigan Senate.

The measure was approved Tuesday by a 24-14 vote and it will allow riders 21 or older to ride without a helmet  if they have been licensed to operate a motorcycle for at least two years or have passed a safety course. Motorcyclists wishing to ride without a helmet also will need extra insurance coverage.

The measure has now advanced to the House. If it's passed there, it isn't clear whether or not Governor Rick Snyder will sign it into law if it reaches his desk.

Bills similar to this one have been passed in the Legislature before. In 2006 and in 2008 Governor Jennifer Granholm vetoed those bills.