Heeding the advice of motorcycle stunt man Evel Knievel and disregarding the presence of Hells Angels, an Assembly committee approved a controversial bill Wednesday night to require motorcyclists to wear safety helmets in order to reduce injuries and deaths.

Knievel, who gained fame for jumping rows of automobiles on a motorcycle while wearing a helmet, was booed by opposing motorcyclists in the audience after his testimony and a videotape showing some of his unlucky jumps.

Asked about the remarks made at the noon rally, Assemblyman Floyd said, "Helmetless motorcycle riders are costing California taxpayers $65 million a year. That's the cost of medical care for motorcyclists who are injured in accidents and not wearing helmets. The average amount an injured rider pays is $120, according to studies.