Public Legislative Summary: S 3327

Overview

• Bill Number: S 3327
  
• Title: Requires operators of bicycles, skateboards and in-line skates who are under 18 years of age to wear protective headgear
  
• Status: Referred to Transportation (dated January 24, 2025)
  
• Introduced: January 24, 2025
  
• Primary Sponsor: James Skoufis
  
• Companion/Related Bills:
  
  • Companion in Assembly: A 242
    
  • Related bills from prior sessions: S 6655, S 1892, S 2785

Purpose and Intent

• The bill aims to enhance safety for minors by mandating the use of protective headgear for individuals under 18 when operating bicycles, skateboards, or in-line skates. The underlying intent is to reduce head injuries among young riders and skaters.

Key Provisions (as indicated by bill summary)

• Protective Headgear Requirement: Any person under 18 operating a bicycle, skateboard, or in-line skates would be required to wear protective headgear.
• Note: The available information does not specify detailed provisions such as definitions of “protective headgear,” specific standards or certifications, exemptions, or penalties. The exact regulatory language, enforcement mechanisms, and effective dates are not provided in the summary.

Who Is Affected

• Primary Beneficiaries: Minors under 18 who operate bicycles, skateboards, or in-line skates within the state.
• Broad Impact: Families and guardians of minors, bicycle/skateboard/skating venues, and retailers selling protective headgear.

Enforcement, Compliance, and Timeline

• Enforcement Details: Not specified in the available information. Typically, such measures would address penalties or fines, but the bill text would define this.
• Effective Date/Phased Rollout: No effective date or transition timeline is provided in the summary.
• Procedural Status: Referred to the Transportation Committee, indicating the bill will be reviewed and possibly amended before any floor consideration.

Legislative Context and Related Activity

• Sponsorship: James Skoufis (primary sponsor).
• Related/Companion Legislation: A 242 (Assembly), indicating cross-chamber consideration of similar safety objectives.
• Prior Sessions: S 6655, S 1892, S 2785 listed as related bills in prior sessions, suggesting ongoing efforts to address headgear use among youth in this policy area.

Potential Impacts and Considerations

• Safety Benefits: Potential reduction in head injuries among minors engaged in these activities.
• Costs/Practicality: Families may incur costs for protective headgear; impact on participation and compliance rates would likely depend on exemptions, enforcement, and public awareness.
• Operational Considerations: Local enforcement practices and school or activity program policies could influence practical compliance.

Next Steps for Stakeholders

• Monitor the Transportation Committee for hearings or amendments.
• Review the full text for specifics on definitions, standards, exemptions, penalties, and any funding or education provisions.
• Compare with companion bill A 242 and related Senate bills for consistency and potential combined passage.