So what exactly is the problem with helmets? The best I could find was some website from an Austin cyclist that basically equated to "PEOPLE DON'T WANT TO WEAR HELMETS SO THEY'LL STOP BIKING CAUSING THEM TO DRIVE AND MAKE POLLUTION".

So if you think helmets are great, why are helmet laws bad?

I think eating healthy is great, but would not likely support a ban on ice cream.

Check it out:

http://www.cyclehelmets.org/

There are lots of concerns...

I cracked my skull whilst skateboarding without a helmet, when I was 11. I'm all about helmets these days. I do NOT support a helmet law.

"So if you think helmets are great, why are helmet laws bad?"

Yes... everything that's a good idea must be legally enforced by the government. What a good idea. Which I guess means that your idea should itself be enforced by the government.

Like bicycle helmet laws in Oregon, people under 16 should be required to wear helmets while skating.

Otherwise, older skaters can decide for themselves to wear one or not.

I still haven't gotten a good answer as to why someone that believes helmets are a good idea would be opposed to a helmet law. I understand if you question whether or not helmets help, but if you do think helmets are good what is the downside to a helmet law?

Sorry guys, didn't mean to imply some horrible dystopian world in which skateboarders wear helmets. I understand why you're so irate.

The obvious downside to a helmet law is getting a ticket from Police, or any Police contact at all. Personally I try to avoid it. I wear a helmet by CHOICE and that really is how you should arrive at the decision to wear one. You should THINK about the consequences of your actions and exercise the appropriate amount of common sense. Bombing a hill may constitute the necessity of a helmet but a trip to Plaid Pantry may not. With a law in place instead of a harmless ride to the corner store it becomes a negative and unnecessary interaction with the Police, wasting their time and your, and taking your hard earned cash out of your pocket and putting it in theirs.