Hi Sandee,
The helmet rule went into effect at the beginning of this year (January 2007), it was printed in the Journal and is in the supplement rulebook from the Registry. This rule came about when a youth, at the ASPC Congress had a run away with a roadster pony. That child (11 years old) was wedged between the seat and the Apron (thank goodness for that), her head was almost through the hole between the seat and apron. Had she NOT had a helmet on she would had been hurt seriously. I know helmets ARE required in Roadster, but as with any Ridding or Driving class accidents can and do happen. This new rule was brought before the BOD back in 2005, anyone putting on shows could put that new rule into their show premium books with it being an OPTION to wear a helmet until the rule went into effect January 1st, 2007. Our club did and most everyone that rides (and we do have a large youth group that rides here in Area V) and drives have their required helmets. I do support this rule. I too came from the same era you did, I did my fair share of crazy stupid stuff that could have gotten my head kicked off but you hit the nail on the head...Lawsuits...and as a person who is in the insurance profession I know all too well about what can happen with lawsuits.
At our shows we make the announcements the entire weekend in regards to the helmet rule so no excuses that the judges don't know (again they should know if they have their supplement rule book). Our club has even purchased extra helmets that a child can rent for the weekend if they participate in any ridding or driving class that doesn't have one. This way they won't be disqualified before they ever enter the ring. Yes, if any child comes to Congress or Nationals without a helmet they will not be allowed to particiate in those classes. The rule also goes on to say ANYONE who so desires to wear a helmet, whether adult or youth, can do so without being pentalized.
Hope this helps.
Karen