Raleigh, NC - A bill exempting adult drivers of all-terrain vehicles from helmet and eye protection requirements while riding on private property has become North Carolina law without Gov. Beverly Perdue's signature.
Perdue didn't act on the bill loosening protections in a 2005 ATV law before a constitutional deadline last night. That means the bill becomes law even though she didn't sign it. The law takes effect Oct. 1.
Bill supporters have said the measure was in part about limiting what government can force adults to do.
Perdue spokeswoman Chrissy Pearson said the governor understands the concept of personal freedom behind the bill but she didn't sign it as a symbol of her concern about the bill's negative effect on public safety. Pearson likened ATV restrictions to child safety seat and motorcycle helmet requirements.
"They're all designed to protect our citizens," she said.
Eyewear and helmets would still be required on public streets and vehicular areas for adult ATV drivers and for children who drive the vehicles at all times. Opponents have said the exemption will lead to more injuries and deaths for adults and for children, who often mimic their parents' actions.
