OFF THE WIRE
Brian Wheeler
Jackson Citizen Patriot
mlive.com
A motorcycle rider puts on his helmet as he prepares to leave the state Capitol after an anti-helmet rally in 2006.
The just-announced Thrills of the Hills Bike Festival aims to bring motorcycle riders into Jackson, Hillsdale and Lenawee counties from July 12 to 14. State Rep. Mike Shirkey, R-Clark Lake, suggested state lawmakers will help the festival in one respect:
“I think this is going to get a big boost between now and when this event occurs, because it is my strong prediction that the Legislature is finally going to get through a no-helmet law for Michigan."
Will it? State lawmakers have been trying to repeal Michigan's helmet law for motorcyclists for years, getting as far as the desk of former governor Jennifer Granholm, who vetoed a repeal. They will be trying again this year.
So, the question is, should they? Do you believe Michigan needs to join neighboring states that do not require helmets for motorcyclists? Or should we keep the current law on the books?