November 30, 2023
For Immediate Release

 

The Nunatsiavut Assembly has passed legislation concerning the use of helmets by operators and passengers of off-road vehicles on Labrador Inuit Lands.

The Helmets Act, effective as of November 20, 2023, states that operators or passengers of off-road vehicles or passengers being towed by an off-road vehicle are not required to wear helmets when on Labrador Inuit Lands outside of the boundaries of the Inuit Communities. 

The Helmets Act does not apply outside of Labrador Inuit Lands or within Inuit Community boundaries.

“Off-road vehicles” includes snowmobiles, ATVs and side-by-sides but does not include agricultural equipment, infrastructure equipment, garden lawnmowers, lawn tractors or golf carts.

While the use of off-road vehicles is generally regulated by the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador, section 17.9.3 of the Labrador Inuit Land Claims Agreement specifically gives the Nunatsiavut Government the power to create legislation regarding recreational vehicles on Labrador Inuit Lands.

The Nunatsiavut Government recognizes the importance of safety while operating off-road vehicles and encourages operators and passengers to wear helmets, even though Helmets Act states that are not required.

The Helmets Act also does not prevent employers or insurers from requiring their employees or people covered under insurance policies to wear helmets.  Users of off-road vehicles are encouraged to check with their employers or insurance companies to determine if they need to wear helmets when using off-road vehicles.

Media Contact:
Bert Pomeroy
Director of Communications
(709) 896-8582

MEDIA RELEASE – Nunatsiavut Assembly enacts Helmets Act PDF