HARRISBURG, Pa. - Pennsylvania motorcycle operators can now legally wear headsets, earphones, or protective headgear with built-in listening devices in both ears under a measure signed into law Wednesday.

The state legislature approved House Bill 646, which updates a section of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes related to the use of hearing impairment devices.

The previous statute limited motorcycle riders to a headset that provided sound through only one ear for use with a cell phone or other communication device.

The new law permits riders to use "one or more headphones or earphones or protective headgear with these built-in capabilities," recognizing the widespread adoption of wireless and Bluetooth technology by motorcyclists.

The bill, sponsored by Rep. Zachary Mako, received broad support in both chambers of the General Assembly. In the House, the measure passed with a vote of 193-10 on May 14. It later passed the Senate 47-3 on Tuesday, before being officially signed into law the following day.

The change in the law is effective immediately, bringing the Commonwealth's rules in line with current technology used for navigation and safety by motorcycle riders.