Changes in the state's helmet laws for teens could be coming soon to New Jersey.

Ice skaters and scooter riders 17 or younger would be required for the first time to wear helmets under legislation being considered in the state Senate. The bill also increases the helmet requirement age for riding a bike, roller skates and skateboards from 16 to 17.

The Senate Law and Public Safety Committee passed the legislation Thursday. Under current law parents or guardians of a minor who fails to wear a helmet when biking, roller skating or skateboarding face a $25 fine for the first offense. This legislation expands that provision to parents of ice skaters or scooter riders.

Figure skaters involved in organized competition would be exempt.

Similar legislation passed an Assembly committee.