Mopeds in Blacksburg

If you haven't heard, Blacksburg has passed a new ordinance that requires moped riders to wear helmets and eye protection, typically a screen or goggles. The ordinance was passed unanimously by Big Brother town council.

It's stuff like this that really, really makes me want to vote libertarian in local elections. I've been on the fence for some time about getting such transportation, and when I read this bit of news in The Current, I pretty much decide against it. Though to be honest, with a car payment now, the money part was a big strike against it too.

Even so, I'm outraged about this on principle. Apparently a councilman had a motorcycle accident and then decided that all the new moped-riders around town needed town council to swoop down and think for them. Ugh! Am I missing something here? I can go with a helmet, but goggles? Are you serious? This sounds like something an overly anxious parent in need of meds would insist that a 12-year-old wear while riding bikes. I could hardly believe I was reading it correctly.

My pet peeve is paternalistic moves like this by the government. Thanks Blacksburg! Once again, you've made me so proud. You don't protect us when it really matters. Guess all the mopeders need some extra protection making their way through the insane NOVA traffic at the new Wal-mart on South Main.