AN ACT RELATING TO MOTOR AND OTHER VEHICLES -- SPECIAL LICENSES FOR MOTORCYCLES, MOTOR SCOOTERS, LOW-SPEED VEHICLES AND OTHER MOTOR DRIVEN CYCLES

SB 2286 requires all motorcycle operators in Rhode Island to wear a helmet of an approved type, regardless of age. This directly affects every motorcycle, motor scooter, and motor-driven cycle rider on public roads. The bill removes previous age exemptions for helmet use and adds a one-year helmet requirement for new riders during their first year of licensing. Violations carry fines that fund highway safety education programs promoting helmet use. The law takes effect upon passage.