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Bill

Bill

HB 4069

To remove the helmet law in West Virginia.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Dave Foggin and 2 co-sponsors

Bill HB 4069 repeals mandatory motorcycle helmet requirements in West Virginia, prioritizing rider choice over a current public safety mandate.

To House Finance
#motorvehicles #roadsandtransportation
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 4069

Legislative bill overview

HB 4069 proposes to repeal West Virginia's mandatory motorcycle helmet requirement, allowing riders to choose whether to wear helmets. The bill was introduced in January 2026 and has been referred to the House Finance Committee for initial consideration.

Why is this important

Motorcycle helmet laws directly affect public safety and healthcare costs. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that helmets reduce head injury risk by 69% and death risk by 42%, making this a substantive public health policy question with real consequences for rider mortality and injury rates.

Potential points of contention

  • Public health vs. personal freedom: Supporters argue adults should make their own safety choices; opponents cite documented fatality reductions from mandatory helmet laws
  • Healthcare cost implications: Repealing the law could increase serious head injuries and associated emergency care costs, potentially shifting burden to public healthcare systems
  • Insurance and liability: Questions arise about how this affects motorcycle insurance premiums, liability frameworks, and whether uninsured medical costs become public responsibility

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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