LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska lawmakers have revved up a new debate over the state’s motorcycle helmet law.

Senators who want to abolish the 1989 law argued Thursday that it infringes on a personal freedom. Its defenders argue it saves lives and helps contain Medicaid and insurance costs that would increase with more traumatic brain injuries.

Motorcyclist groups have tried for more than two decades to repeal the law without success, but came close in recent years with turnover in the Legislature.

Sen. Dave Bloomfield of Hoskins says he introduced the bill because riders should have the freedom to decide for themselves.

Medical and traffic-safety groups argue that Nebraska already lacks services for residents with brain injuries, and eliminating the helmet requirement would only worsen the problem.