The state has not required helmets for most motorcyclists since 2003, when legislators repealed a law that required one for all riders.

Now, a Pennsylvania lawmaker wants to bring the requirement back.

“Motorcycle helmets save lives,” said Rep. Manuel Guzman Jr. (D-Berks), who sent a co-sponsorship memo proposing new legislation for a mandate to colleagues on Monday. “It’s time Pennsylvania joins the majority of states that protect all riders equally.”

As of 2025, 19 states and the District of Columbia have universal helmet laws, which requires helmets regardless of age or experience. Pennsylvania only requires one if a rider is under 21 years of age or has less than two years of riding experience and has not completed a motorcycle safety course.

The state has more than 787,889 licensed motorcyclists, PennDOT said. In the years since its repeal of the ban, helmet use among riders in crashes decreased from 82% to 58%, according to a 2008 study. Head injury deaths increased by 66%.

Still, anti-helmet activists argued the requirement was in direct conflict with an individual’s freedom of choice. Groups also said helmet use could increase the odds of spinal cord damage.

The Skilled Motorcyclist Association called the claim a “myth” that has been “perpetuated by anti-helmet law advocates for decades, despite the scientific community’s rejection.”

Guzman said it’s time to stop one of the most preventable deaths in the Commonwealth.

“All Pennsylvanians deserve equal protection on the road — not just riders under 21,” he said.

Guzman has yet to formally submit the proposal as legislation.