Ohio bill would make bike helmets mandatory for kids under 16

COLUMBUS — Youngsters would be required to wear helmets when bicycling or face potential fines, under legislation being introduced in the Ohio Senate.

Sen. Shannon Jones, R-Springboro, announced the proposed law changes today during a news conference at the Statehouse, where she and children’s health advocates touted the health and safety benefits of wearing helmets.

“The No. 1 thing that we can do to eliminate and reduce [the severity of injuries] is using a very simple, inexpensive bicycle helmet,” Jones said. “With 70 percent of our kids actually regularly riding their bicycle, it’s really important that they use this piece of safety equipment.”

The legislation would require anyone younger than 16 to wear a helmet while on a bicycle.

For the complete story, read Wednesday's Vindicator and Vindy.com