At the Nov. 3 Southlake City Council meeting the council unanimously approved a revision to the city’s bicycle helmet ordinance.

The revision changes the age for which a parent is responsible for a child wearing a helmet while operating a bicycle or riding inside a seat or other carrier attached to a bicycle from under age 15 to under age 18.

The ordinance has not been revised since 1999 when it was approved.

Council Member Shahid Shafi said the council was prompted to take a look at the ordinance following the April death of a 16-year-old Southlake boy who was killed when he was struck by a vehicle.

Family and friends of James “Cole” Malone attended the City Council meeting in support of the ordinance.

Department of Public Safety and city officials said they believe this change to the city ordinance will help reduce head injuries to children. Officials also said that information and prevention are the key to the success of this new bicycle safety campaign. DPS announced it will produce and distribute effective communication throughout the next year to include information about the proper fitting of bike helmets and other important bicycle safety tips.

The ordinance took effect Nov. 6. Parents of those in violation of the ordinance will be fined up to $500.