Bid to Eliminate Tennessee Motorcycle Helmet Law Fails

The latest effort to rescind Tennessee’s motorcycle helmet law for adult riders has failed for the year.

Republican Sen. Mike Bell of Riceville asked the Senate Transportation Committee on Wednesday to place his measure on the panel’s first calendar of next year’s legislative session.

The House had previously sent the companion bill to a summer study committee.

Supporters argue that doing away with the helmet law could boost tourism in the state, but opponents point to the increased cost of treating head injuries for helmetless riders.