The former executive director of the Louisiana Highway Safety Commission said he was fired because he disagreed with Gov. Bobby Jindal's push to repeal the state's mandatory motorcycle helmet law.

Champagne, who held the post for 12 years, said he was abruptly fired March 25 and left six days later.

He played a key role in the 2004 push to enact the law, which requires all motorcycle operators and riders to wear approved helmets or face fines.

Champagne said he got the news of his dismissal from State Police Superintendent Mike Edmonson.

Edmonson said Champagne was not replaced because of his views on motorcycle safety helmets. The administration wants to move the office of traffic safety in a different direction, he said.

The Associated Press contributed to this report