New Bill Requires Parental Consent for Minors’ Motorcycle Permits in Colorado
DENVER, CO—Gov. Jared Polis signed House Bill 26-1079, requiring parental consent for minors seeking motorcycle instruction permits, effective August 12, 2026.
The bill garnered unanimous support in the Colorado Legislature, inspired by the traumatic experience of Rep. Brandi Bradley’s son, Michael Cole Bradley, who survived a serious motorcycle crash on September 11, 2025.
According to the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office, the accident involved Cole, then 18, colliding with an RV while traveling approximately 72 mph in a 45-mph zone. Cole was subsequently charged with reckless driving; the charges were dismissed under a plea agreement.
Rep. Bradley emphasized the importance of the legislation during committee hearings, stating it aims to protect minors by ensuring parental involvement in their motorcycle-related decisions. “Parents know what is best for their children,” she asserted. However, the bill does not apply to Cole since he was not a minor at the time of the crash.
Authorities confirmed that Cole has had multiple run-ins with law enforcement over the past two years, including a speeding incident three months after his motorcycle crash.
The governor’s office stated that Gov. Polis supports the bill’s intent to enhance road safety but did not comment on its naming or the details surrounding Cole Bradley’s past incidents.