The question of whether local government should force young bike riders to wear helmets is under review in Loudoun County.
Supervisors are considering a new law that would require riders 14 and under to protect their heads or risk $25 fines.
Supervisor Lori Waters said her proposal is meant to be part of a broader communication effort to encourage more children to wear helmets.
“A simple $20 helmet can prevent thousands of dollars in medical bills and devastating injuries,” Waters said.
Alexandria and Arlington, Prince William and Fauquier counties all have passed similar laws since the General Assembly made them possible in 2001.
The law is not supposed to raise much revenue, Assistant County Administrator John Sandy said, noting children receive a warning for the first offense and a fine will be waived if parents can show a receipt.
The board has been split on the measure, voting 5-4 in May to put discussing the proposal on the agenda at Tuesday night’s public hearing. It will go up for a vote later this month.
