Washington State
House of Representatives
Office of Program Research
BILL
ANALYSIS
Transportation Committee
HB 1255
Brief Description: Concerning motorcycle steering equipment requirements.
Sponsors: Representatives Orcutt and Sutherland.
Brief Summary of Bill
  • Exempts a motorcycle driver from the requirement to wear a helmet if the motorcycle is equipped with a steering wheel or handlebars, seat belts meeting federal safety standards, and a partially or completely enclosed seating area which has been federally certified as crush proof.
Hearing Date:
Staff: Beth Redfield (786-7140).
Background:

Motorcycle drivers are required to wear a helmet when operating the motorcycle on a state highway, county road, or city street.  The requirement does not apply if  the motorcycle is antique or the motorcycle is equipped with all of the following:  a steering wheel, seat belts meeting federal safety standards, and a partially or completely enclosed seating area which has been federally certified as crush proof.
Summary of Bill:

The motorcycle helmet requirement would not apply if a motorcycle is equipped with a steering wheel or handlebars and also meets the requirements regarding safety belts and a crush proof, enclosed seating area.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Requested on January 25, 2021.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.