(Madison)Today the Wisconsin Senate passed Assembly Bill 100, permitting users to equip a motorcycle with a lighting device that illuminates the ground directly beneath the motorcycle with a color other than red, blue, or amber.

 

Senator Scott Fitzgerald (R-Juneau) released the following statement:

 

"As a motorcyclist myself, I was proud to sponsor this legislation which I hope will help to make Wisconsin’s roads safer for riders.

 

This is a common sense provision which already exists in other states. It will allow motorcycle riders to customize their vehicles, equipping them with additional lighting which will make the motorcyclists more visible to other drivers on the road.

 

We continually strive to make our roads safe for all drivers and I believe that this measure will provide a valuable opportunity for Wisconsin’s biking community."

 

Coauthor Representative John Jagler (R-Watertown) added:

 

"This bill is about motorcycle safety. It’s foolish to me that a biker could be ticketed for lights which make them more visible to other drivers.

 

As more and more people get these LED lights installed on their motorcycles, we need to make it clear that they are not breaking the law. I know for many people riding a motorcycle is not only a hobby, it’s also an extension of their personality. They should be able to enjoy the freedom to install these lights and personalize their rides."

 

The bill now heads to the Governor’s desk for his signature.