The bill also mandates a change in reporting obligations for law enforcement agencies. Specifically, it compels them to document and report incidents involving horses on the roads. Agencies that respond to horse-involved collisions must note these incidents in their reports and submit annual statistics to the California Transportation Agency, which will help in understanding the risks and patterns associated with horseback riding incidents within the state. This measure seeks to bring more attention to the welfare of equestrian activities in an increasingly populated vehicular environment.
Assembly Bill No. 2846, introduced by Assembly Member Luz Rivas, aims to enhance safety measures for young riders of horses on public streets and highways. Under the new law, any person under the age of 18 is required to wear a properly fitted and fastened helmet while riding a horse. This requirement aligns with existing helmet laws for other recreational activities such as cycling and skating, reinforcing the overall goal of protecting youth from head injuries while participating in horseback riding on public roads.
There are implications regarding state mandates for local agencies. The law states that no reimbursement is required for certain costs related to the enforcement and compliance of the helmet requirement, which could lead to concerns about unfunded mandates for local jurisdictions. Moreover, while the safety of young riders is a priority, balancing the responsibilities placed on law enforcement and local agencies will be vital in addressing community needs effectively without imposing undue burdens on local resources.