Ohio lawmakers OK earplugs for motorcyclists

PICKERINGTON, Ohio — Ohio motorcyclists would be allowed to use earplugs while riding under a bill passed by the state legislature and forwarded to Gov. Mike DeWine.

It currently is illegal to use headphones or earplugs while riding in Ohio.

The use of earplugs can help protect riders’ hearing from the noise caused by wind, loud exhaust notes or other traffic.

The new law (H.B. 129) would still prohibit the use of earphones for listening to music or other entertainment while riding.

The definition of earphones does not include speakers or other listening devices that are built into protective headgear.