Saying that motorcyclists should have the choice and use their discretion in deciding whether or not to wear a helmet, the governor of Michigan signed into law this week a measure to repeal the mandatory helmet law.

The repealed law was decades old, and his predecessor had twice vetoed a similar bill that made it through the legislature.

The new law does require anyone under 21 to wear a helmet, and those over 21 to carry an additional $20,000 in liability insurance and to have completed a safety training course if they haven’t had their motorcycle endorsement for two years.

Opponents argue the obvious–increase in injuries and fatalities–and the concern that the new law will result in higher insurance premiums for motorcyclists.

Proponents say neither is true. And add that being required to wear a helmet has kept motorcycle tourists from cruising through Michigan, in addition to taking away freedom of choice.

What do you think?