Read the proposed California helmet bill

As we are sure that you've heard, there is a proposed law in the California State Senate to require bicycle helmets for all people riding bicycles, regardless of age, as well as reflective clothing for all people riding bicycles after sundown.Silicon Valley Bicycle Coalition supports current law, which is that all children under 18 are required to wear a helmet while riding a bicycle (CVC 21212) and that bicycles must have 1. a white headlight while operating at night as well as 2. a back red reflector, 3. white or yellow reflectors on each pedal, and 4. white or yellow side reflectors on the front of the bike or red or white side reflectors on the back of the bike (CVC 21201(d and e)).However, we have had a long-standing policy to not take a position on proposed helmet laws. We recognize that there are many perspectives among our members and the general public on this issue and we encourage you to read the proposed text of the bill and contact your representatives in the state legislature with your opinions.