Michigan could introduce a law requiring skiers and snowboarders to wear helmets.

A new bill introduced and authored by Michigan Representative Bob Constan was passed shortly after a fatal skiing accident in December.

A 13-year old girl died after suffering from a head injury while skiing at Shanty Creek Resort’s Schuss Mountain in Bellaire. Authorities said that a helmet could have saved her life.

The bill calls for a $100 fine for those caught without helmets, but Constan said that fines would not be strictly enforced.

However, there is some opposition from the snowsports industry. In a statement, Boyne Highlands and Boyne Mountain said while helmet use is encouraged, “we don’t think this new legislation is the way to go. We believe that helmets are a good idea but not necessarily for all skiing and riding situations.”

John Cleary, general manager of Snowsnake in Harrison says, “I think it should be left up to the individual. We recommend it, but we believe it’s a matter of personal preference.”

A report from the US Consumer Product Safety Commission notes that head injuries account for 14 per cent of skiing and snowboarding accidents, as well as 56 per cent of related deaths.

No other states have laws that require helmet use, according to the National Ski Areas Association.

The association says that on average 38 people died each year for the past 10 years from skiing or snowboarding accidents. An average of 42 people suffered serious injuries, which includes head injuries.

The bill, which would amend a 1962 law that outlines basic skiing regulations, is under review by the House Tourism, Outdoor Recreation and Natural Resources Committee.