When you bought your first bike with all the bells and whistles, did you also think to buy flashy, neon vests and pants? An Oregon lawmaker hopes that reflective gear will soon be compulsory for bicycle riders.
BikePortland reports that a new bill requiring all Oregon bikers to wear reflective clothing has been introduced to the House by Rep. John Davis, R-Wilsonville.
Anyone riding on a highway or area open to the public without reflective clothing would face a maximum fine of $250, according to House bill 3255. The offense would be considered a Class D traffic violation.
In his second term, Rep. Davis is vice-chair of the House Committee on Transportation and Economic Development. He told the bike blog that knowing many bicyclists himself, he sees the need for more reflective clothing. "Especially those who ride at dusk, are supportive of this."
Oregon joins California, Wyoming and South Dakota in introducing required reflective clothing bills this legislative session.
Davis hopes to have a public hearing in Salem sometime this month.
Editor's note: Rep. Davis told BikePortland that he knows many bicyclists personally, but does not identify as a cyclist himself.
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