FRESNO, Calif. ( KSEE/KGPE ) – Motorcyclists who wear turbans would not have to wear a helmet if a new law proposed by a Fresno-area assemblymember is approved.
The bill aims to establish a safety helmet exception for those who wear turbans, as an expression of their religious belief and practices.
According to Soria, California is home to half of Sikhs in the United States and many of them are motorcycle enthusiasts. Soria says they deserve to continue riding – while at the same time respecting their freedom of religion in a way that supports safety.
“AB 2392 ensures we safeguard our Sikh community’s right to practice their religious expression freely, while also protecting their and other motorcyclists’ safety on California’s roads,” said Assemblymember Soria.
Existing law requires a driver and a passenger to wear a safety helmet meeting certain requirements when riding on a motorcycle, motor-driven cycle, or motorized bicycle.
The Sikh Council of Central California says freedom of religion is a fundamental right, adding that the council is happy to work with the California legislature to support this bill “that will allow Sikh motorcyclists to fully express their faith while celebrating their California dream.”