Maine Considers Change to Helmet Law
While most states are clamping down on things like under-age drivers and helmet laws for motorcycle operators, the state of Maine is going about it in small increments. For example, they are currently considering a change in the age limit under which helmets are required.
Under current Maine law, anyone under the age of fifteen must wear protective headgear when riding a motorcycle, either as a driver or passenger. A new bill, sponsored by Representative Emily Cain (D' Orono), and approved by the state legislature, would increase that age limit to 18. The bill has been sent to Governor John Baldacci for his final signature.
The age increase for helmets isn't the only biker-related bill under consideration in Maine. A separate one, designed to increase safety for motorcyclists, would require warning signs for any stretch of state highway where there are center-line rumble strips, is waiting for Senate approval, having already been passed by the House.
Yet another bill (this makes three) is still in committee in Maine's legislature. That bill, if passed, would make helmets mandatory for ALL motorcycle drivers and passengers, regardless of age.
