Rep. Conley Applauds Governor's Signing Of Connor's Law

GROTON, CT - From Connecticut General Assembly: State Representative Christine Conley (D – Groton, Ledyard) applauds Gov. Dannel P. Malloy’s signing of legislation that will help to protect children while they ride bicycles and skateboards.

House Bill 5314, otherwise known as “Conor’s Law,” requires that all children under the age of 15 must wear a helmet while skateboarding. In addition, any business renting to an individual under the age of 16 must rent them a helmet as well.

“Our children’s safety is paramount. It is all too common for what seems like a simple bicycle or skateboarding accident to result in serious health consequences and in rare occasions, fatality.” Rep. Conley stated. “The signage of House Bill 5314 as law insures our children’s safety as they continue to enjoy the hallmarks of childhood.”

“Conor’s Law” honors Ledyard resident Conor Irwin, who passed away following a skateboarding accident in 2016. At the time of Conor’s passing, Connecticut Law required helmets for children under the age of 16 only while riding a bicycle. Ensuring that her son would not die in vain, Holly Irwin became an advocate for the same safety requirements to be extended to skateboards.

The final version of the legislation Public Act 18-167 requires children under the age of 15 to wear protective headgear that conforms to the minimum specifications established by the American National Standards Institute or the Snell Memorial Foundation will be effective as of October 1, 2018.

Photo courtesy of Connecticut General Assembly