Motorcycle helmet laws vary widely among the states and have changed a lot in the past half a century. Currently, West Virginia is among 19 states and the District of Columbia with a law requiring all riders (operators and passengers) to wear a helmet.

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) urges "everyone aboard a motorcycle be required to wear a helmet." Polls show most Americans agree. They view it is a public health issue. This is simply not the case.

A public health issue arises when masses of people are exposed to illness or injury by dangers beyond their control—contaminated water, sooty air, natural disaster—or when I get a serious disease that I may pass on to you against your will.

With that being said, we the people of West Virginia do call upon our Delegates and Senators to enact House Bill 2070 and Let Those Who Ride Decide.