New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

New Jersey Senate Bill S1960

Introduced
1/9/24  

Caption

Requires helmet while operating bicycle, scooter, or motorized scooter.

Impact

If enacted, SB1960 will have a significant impact on state laws concerning personal safety during recreational activities. The bill requires compliance from individuals operating relevant vehicles in public spaces, which may lead to increased awareness and enforcement of safety measures. It also aims to mitigate the risks associated with falls and accidents by ensuring helmets are worn during these activities. Business operators engaged in selling or renting these items must also comply by providing helmets and informing customers about the legal requirements.

Summary

Senate Bill 1960 aims to enhance safety regulations by mandating that all individuals, regardless of age, wear helmets when operating bicycles, roller skates, skateboards, motorized scooters, and non-motorized scooters. Previous regulations only required individuals under the age of 17 to wear a helmet, but the new bill extends this requirement to individuals of all ages. The bill serves as an amendment to existing statutory law, emphasizing the importance of protective gear in reducing head injuries associated with these activities.

Contention

While the bill intends to promote safety, it may face opposition regarding the level of government intervention in personal choices. Some stakeholders might argue against the necessity of a law mandating helmet usage for adults, perceiving it as an infringement on personal freedom and responsibility. Additionally, businesses could express concerns about the increased liability associated with stricture regulations. The enforcement of this law could also lead to penalties for non-compliance, raising questions about the practicality of monitoring such regulations within local communities.

Companion Bills

NJ A4887

Same As Requires helmet while operating bicycle, scooter, or motorized scooter.

NJ A4894

Carry Over Requires helmet while operating bicycle, scooter, or motorized scooter.

NJ S3494

Carry Over Requires helmet while operating bicycle, scooter, or motorized scooter.

Similar Bills

NJ A4894

Requires helmet while operating bicycle, scooter, or motorized scooter.

NJ A4887

Requires helmet while operating bicycle, scooter, or motorized scooter.

NJ S3494

Requires helmet while operating bicycle, scooter, or motorized scooter.

NJ A2381

Restricts use of motorized skateboards.

NJ A3792

Restricts use of motorized skateboards.

CA AB1818

State government.

CA AB2989

Motorized scooter: use of helmet: maximum speed.

CA SB295

Board of Pilot Commissioners: surcharge.