Sikh motorcycle brigade photo by the U.S. Embassy and Consulates in Canada on flickr

Assemblymember Esmeralda Soria introduced a bill this week to establish a motorcycle safety helmet exemption for persons who wear a turban as an expression of religious belief when riding on a motorcycle, motor-driven cycle or motorized bicycle.

The bill, AB 2392, aims to protect religious expression; approximately half of the Sikh population in the U.S. resides in California, according to a news release from Soria’s office.

The Sikh religion requires the hair to be covered with a turban in formal and public settings.

“AB 2392 ensures we safeguard our Sikh community’s right to practice their religious expression freely, while also protecting their and other motorcyclists’ safety on California’s roads,” said Soria in a statement.

The bill will aim to protect the beliefs and rights of practicing Sikhs, many of whom are motorcycle enthusiasts, Soria said.

“Freedom of religion is a fundamental right and the Sikh Council of Central California is happy to work with the California legislature to support this bill that will allow Sikh motorcyclists to fully express their faith while celebrating their California dream,” said, Sukhdev Cheema and Rajwinderpal Singh, officers of the Sikh Council of Central California.