OFF THE WIRE
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) - A measure to exempt motorcycle riders in
Missouri who are at least 21 years old and meet certain insurance
requirements is now going to the Senate for consideration.
The Missouri House on Monday approved a proposal to allow older riders to go without helmets by a vote of 97-57.
Supporters say it is a matter of personal freedom and that adults should be allowed to make their own decisions.
Republican
Rep. Eric Burlison, of Springfield, says Missouri could attract more
motorcyclist events if the requirement were to be lifted.
Opponents
criticized the measure as endangering people's lives and health, as
well as putting potential health care costs for severe injuries that
could result from motorcycle crashes onto state programs.
