Vehicles: bicycle helmets.

Assembly Member Dixon's proposal to modify California's bicycle helmet regulations would double the maximum fine for minors who fail to wear protective headgear while riding bicycles, scooters, skateboards, or using skating equipment. The measure increases the penalty from $25 to $50 for violations of existing requirements that mandate properly fitted and fastened helmets meeting American Society for Testing and Materials or U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission standards.

The legislation maintains the current framework for fine allocation, with 72.5% directed to county health departments for safety education and helmet assistance programs for low-income families. Cities receive 25% of fines from violations within their jurisdictions, while 2.5% supports county administration of these programs. Parents and legal guardians remain jointly liable for penalties assessed to unemancipated minors under their care.

The bill preserves provisions allowing first-time violators to avoid penalties by demonstrating compliance and completing a safety course within 120 days. It also continues existing requirements for helmet manufacturers to include labeling that certifies their products meet applicable safety standards, while prohibiting the sale of non-compliant equipment.