A Nebraska Senator wants to amend the state’s existing helmet law. Senator Ben Hansen’s bill LB91, would amend the state’s existing law. It would allow riders at least 21 years old and who have taken a certified motorcycle safety course to ride without a helmet.

Commenting on the bill, Hansen said the bill is about freedom—he told KSNB that this was more than a medical or economic issue—it’s a cultural issue. He said Nebraska has 83,000 motorcyclists with a “rich culture and history” that want the option to choose whether or not they wear a helmet, without the state mandating it.

Hansen isn’t alone in his desire to see the law amended. While former Nebraska State Senator Dave Bloomfield was in office, he offered similar proposals that did not become law. But his position is that not only does the law deny rights, it also has an economic impact on the state. He claims that the law causes motorcyclists to avoid riding through Nebraska.

“[The bill] would encourage and increase tourism, increase revenue, and positively encourage new business. More importantly, LB91 would restore a right that has been denied for too long.” – Nebraska Senator Dave Bloomfield as quoted by KSNB

But the bill still faces opposition from a number of points including doctors, nurses, insurance agents and lawyers. At a recent Nebraska Transportation Committee hearing, opponents reportedly far outweighed supporters.

Still, Bloomfield thinks that the bill will pass. He says that he’s confident that he has the votes to pass it this time around. We will watch this piece of legislation and let you know the results.