Dockless electric scooter company Bird has sponsored mostly under-the-radar legislation that would ease helmet requirements.
While giving away free helmets to users who pay for shipping, Bird is at the same time pushing AB 2989, a bill making its way through the Legislature that would require scooter operators under 18 years old to wear a helmet.
Current California vehicle code requires helmets for all people who drive motorized scooters, regardless of age.
Senate analysis of the bill states that Bird is concerned the "chilling effect" of requiring helmets may make motorized scooters inconvenient and less attractive to customers.
In the non-motorized bicycle department, helmets are only required for riders under the age of 18.