Look Twice – Save a Life

U-Tube video presents a “You didn’t see me” message

Black Nail Brigade Ride & Protest Oct 8th

October 8, 2009- Wauconda, Illinois Black Nail Brigade Awareness Ride & Protest
Meeting Point: 7AM to 8AM, behind Wauconda IL Walgreens in empty parking lot (west of rte 12/176 intersection). Awareness Ride: 8AM to 9AM. Proceed to crash site at Rte 12 & Old McHeny Rd. North on Midlothian Rd, Peterson Rd, Rte 45, Rte 120, to courthouse. Lake County Couthouse (Waukegan, IL) & Arraignment: 9AM to 12PM. We will circle the courthouse several times before parking. Park in spots on N County St or MLK Jr Ave (bring quarters). Please feel free to join us at the courthouse if you can’t make the ride. http://www.blacknailbrigade.org/ Please email greg at greg@blacknailbrigade.org if you can join us.

AMA News & Notes for Oct 2009

October 2009 News & Notes is a monthly publication compiled and edited by the American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) Government Relations Department. Designed to inform motorcyclists of rights-related issues and events around the world, News & Notes welcomes your input. Suggestions and contributions can be sent to AMA Legislative Assistant Sheila Andrews by e-mail at sandrews@ama-cycle.org. Protect your right to ride! Volunteering is easier than you think. Visit us at AmericanMotorcyclist.com, click on Rights, then Get Involved to learn how you can help. Sign up and stay informed: AMA’s electronic Action Alerts and News & Notes will keep you informed on hot topics, news affecting the motorcycling community and opportunities to communicate with your elected officials. By signing up to receive AMA Action Alerts, you will be notified by e-mail when and how you can make a difference on important issues. Click here to see the most recent Action Alerts, and click here to sign up. In addition to signing up for our Action Alerts, you can sign up to receive AMA’s monthly electronic edition of News & Notes. News & Notes keeps motorcyclists informed of rights-related issues and events around the world. Click here and check the “Sign me up for AMA’s Government Relations News & Notes” box at the bottom of the page. National Public Lands Day is Saturday, September 26, 2009. This annual event is the nation’s largest hands-on volunteer effort to improve and enhance the public lands every American enjoys. In 2008, 120,000 volunteers built trails and bridges, removed trash and invasive plants, and planted over 1.6 million trees. Visit http://www.publiclandsday.org/ to register a project or volunteer for an existing project in your area. The AMA and ATVA express concern over health care debate. Millions of on-highway and off-highway motorcyclists, as well as all-terrain vehicle (ATV) riders, may be adversely impacted by the various heath care bills currently under consideration in Congress. The AMA and the ATVA (All-Terrain Vehicle Association) urge riders to contact their elected officials and ask them to help ensure that motorcyclists and ATV riders will continue to be able to pursue their chosen recreational activities and/or chosen mode of transportation without the addition of unneeded prohibitions, limitations or mandates stemming from any health care legislation under consideration. Source: http://www.amadirectlink.com/news/story.asp?id=1245 Keystone, CO: With the theme “Riding to New Heights,” the 2009 AMA International Women & Motorcycling Conference, presented by Harley-Davidson and Buell, wrapped up in Keystone, Colorado following four inspired days of riding, learning and networking in one of the best riding areas in the United States. The event, which ran August 19-22, not only honored the contributions of women riders to motorcycling’s past and present, it also celebrated the fast-growing role that female motorcyclists are playing in the future of motorcycling. With the breathtaking Rocky Mountains as a backdrop, more than 1,000 enthusiastic motorcyclists gathered at the Keystone Resort & Conference Center for a full slate of activities that included guided tours, seminars, demo rides from multiple manufacturers, inspiring speeches, social functions and training sessions. Source: http://www.amadirectlink.com/news/story.asp?id=1241 California: The California Highway Patrol (CHP) has selected the Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) to administer the California Motorcyclist Safety Program (CMSP) for the third consecutive time. Under contract with the CHP, the MSF initially assumed the administration of the CMSP in 2004 and was again selected for 2008 and 2009. The new contract calls for the MSF to administer the motorcyclist-funded, state-operated program for a three-year term, from 2010 through 2012, with two additional one-year options, for a total contract of up to five years. The new CMSP contract includes a 15 percent reduction in student administrative costs to the state; savings that increase state funding for motorcycle safety made possible by riders through payment of the $2 Motorcycle Safety Fee on California motorcycle registrations and renewals. The Motorcycle Safety Foundation promotes rider safety through rider training systems, operator licensing tests and public information programs. Source: http://www.tmcnet.com/usubmit/2009/08/24/4335968.htm Tracy, Calif.: Carnegie State Vehicular Recreation Area (SVRA) reopens after fire. Damage from a recent fire, which lead to a temporary closure of this popular SVRA, has been repaired. Currently all the tracks, the campground, the valley floor, and all of the park west of the Bunkhouse and Los Osos trails are open to riding. The fire, which started on private property adjacent to the SVRA, was initially driven by strong winds and spread quickly, burning onto state property and causing damage to the eastern portion of the park. The fire later turned away from the park, and continued to burn southeast toward Patterson. Approximately 250 acres of the eastern portion of the park were burned, including fence lines and areas of dense vegetation. The entire eastern portion of Kiln Canyon (east of Kiln Road), SRI Road, and the lands above the motocross track were burned. Source: http://www.ohv.parks.ca.gov/ Delaware: House Bill 122, sponsored by Rep. Earl Jaques (D-Wilmington), has been enacted. The bill makes operation and/or use of a plate frame containing or including scrolling, strobe and/or blinking lights around a license plate a violation, except during special organized events such as parades and car shows. The bill was signed into law July 24 by Governor Jack Markell and takes effect immediately. Idaho: A new website that focuses on responsible off-highway vehicle (OHV) use has been recently launched. The Idaho OHV Public Education Campaign is a consortium of public lands agencies that sponsor an ongoing education campaign to help inform OHV users about the rules of conduct for off-highway vehicles such as motorcycles, all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), utility terrain vehicles (UTVs) and four-wheel-drive vehicles on public lands. The sponsoring agencies include the Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation, Idaho Department of Fish and Game, Idaho Department of Lands, U.S. Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management. The multi-pronged campaign will involve a mix of paid advertising including radio and outdoor ads, public relations activities and events. The campaign is focused on Idaho riders statewide in hopes of improving compliance with rules and regulations regarding OHV use on public lands. Source: http://stayontrails.com/ North Carolina: Senate Bill 64, sponsored by Sen. Harry Brown (R-Jacksonville), proposed changes to requirements for obtain a motorcycle learner’s permit and a motorcycle endorsement, including mandatory rider training for all first-time endorsement applicants. In an amendment offered on the House floor by Rep. Dale Folwell (R-Winston-Salem), the bill was changed to instead make rider education mandatory for those riders less than 18 years of age and make a learner’s permit valid for twelve months with one six-month renewal. Governor Mike Easley signed the bill into law on August 26; it takes effect January 1, 2011. Louisiana: House Bill 802, sponsored by Rep. James R. Fannin (D-Jonesboro), authorized the transfer by the state treasurer of $6,544 from the Motorcycle Safety and Training Fund to the state general fund. The transfer was part of a $24,378,056 raid on 75 dedicated funds. Signed into law by Governor Bobby Jindal on June 30, the transfer is authorized to occur immediately. Michigan: House Bill 4205, sponsored by Rep. Tom Pearce (R-Rockford), would prohibit the intentional placement of an item in or across a roadway that is likely to come into contact with a moving vehicle or a person riding in or upon a moving vehicle or the placement of any dangerous item in or across a roadway. Proposed penalties range from not more than 1 year in prison or a fine of not more that $500 (or both) for a violation that results in property damage and up to 15 years in prison or a fine of not more than $10,000 (or both) for a violation causing death. Pennsylvania: PennDOT Offers Free Motorcycle Safety Courses. Classes providing the opportunity to learn or improve skill are conducted annually from March through October. The Basic Rider Course (BRC) is a 15-hour course consisting of five hours of in-class instruction and 10 hours of practical riding experience, under the watchful eyes of certified rider coaches. The six-hour Experienced Rider Course (ERC) provides skilled riders the chance to refresh their safety knowledge and hone their on-highway skills. Visit www.pamsp.com for more information on the Motorcycle Safety Program and to enroll in a course. Additional information about motorcycle safety as well as general information on licensing and registration is available at www.dmv.state.pa.us. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania: New motorcycle and scooter parking spaces installed. The Philadelphia Parking Authority has begun to install special parking zones for motorcycles and scooters in parts of the downtown business district. Parking Authority officials say the spaces will cost $1 per hour, half the rate for cars. The motorcycle and scooter spaces are part of broader downtown parking changes that were implemented in July and include multi-space meters that accept debit cards and additional truck loading zones. All the parking changes should be finished by February. The parking authority will ticket motorcycles and scooters parked on sidewalks as parking zones are created. Source: http://www.philapark.org/permits/permit_info.aspx Irving, Texas: Newest MSF Campus Up and Running. Expanded facility offers rider training, education and research opportunities. The MSF Campus at Irving offers the complete system of MSF on- and off-highway rider education and training opportunities available to date including the Basic RiderCourse, the Experienced RiderCourse, the DirtBike School, as well as the ATV Safety Institute’s ATV RiderCourse. The MSF Campus is also a research and testing site for new MSF curriculum products currently under development, with the added value that students there are likely to be among the first to benefit from new courses when they are officially released. In addition, the MSF Campus hosts ongoing professional development events for MSF RiderCoaches, DirtBike School Coaches, and ASI Instructors. Class schedules and online enrollment are available at www.msf-campus.org. Source: http://www.msf-usa.org/ Officers elected to American Motorcycle Heritage Foundation Board of Directors. The AMA is pleased to announce the results of officer elections for the American Motorcycle Heritage Foundation (AMHF) Board of Directors, which raises money for the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum. Jack Penton, AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame off-road racer with more than 40 years of industry experience, was elected chairman. Tom White, founder of White Brothers and the Early Years of Motocross Museum in Villa Park, Calif., was elected vice chairman. Jeff Heininger, founder of automotive travel product company Heininger Automotive, was elected secretary/treasurer, an office the Directors also voted to combine at the July 26 meeting. Penton’s current term extends through February 2011. White and Heininger’s terms expire in February 2012. AMHF Board officers are elected annually. Source: http://www.amadirectlink.com/news/story.asp?id=1203 London, England: New helmet safety ratings unveiled. An additional 25 motorcycle helmets have been rated by SHARP, the Department for Transport’s Safety Helmet Assessment and Ratings Program, bringing the number of ratings published to 150. Helmets sold in the UK must meet minimum legal safety standards but the SHARP scheme uses a wider range of tests to provide riders with more information on how much protection a helmet can provide in a crash. The objective advice, which includes important guidance on how to select a good fitting helmet, helps riders to choose the safest helmet suitable for them. The SHARP tests – which award ratings of between one and five stars – showed that the safety performance of helmets can vary by as much as 70%. With helmets across a wide price range scoring highly, all riders should be able to find a high performing helmet in a size and style that fits them at a price they can afford. Source: http://londonbikers.com/news/12271/new-helmet-safety-ratings-unveiled AMA Government Relations News & Notes is a monthly service compiled and edited by the AMA Government Relations Staff to keep motorcyclists informed of happenings around the world. We welcome your news & views. Please submit all material to Sheila Andrews, Legislative Assistant, 101 Constitution Ave., NW Suite 800W, Washington, DC 20001; fax (202) 742-4304 or e-mail to sandrews@ama-cycle.org.

AMA News and Notes- 06/09

June
2009

News & Notes is a
monthly publication compiled and edited by the American Motorcyclist
Association (AMA) Government Relations Department. Designed to inform
motorcyclists of rights-related issues and events around the world,
News & Notes welcomes your input. Suggestions and contributions
can be sent to Sheila Andrews, AMA Legislative Assistant, by e-mail
at sandrews@ama-cycle.org.

Sign up and stay informed: AMA’s electronic Action
Alerts and News & Notes will keep
you informed on hot topics, news affecting the motorcycling community
and opportunities to communicate with your elected officials. By
signing up to receive AMA Action Alerts, you will be notified by
e-mail when you can make a difference on important issues. Click
here to see the most recent Action Alerts,
and click
here to sign up. In addition to signing up
for our Action Alerts, you can sign up to receive AMA’s monthly
electronic edition of News & Notes. News & Notes keeps
motorcyclists informed of rights-related issues and events around the
world. Click
here and check the “Sign me up for AMA’s
Government Relations News & Notes” box at the bottom of the
page.

The Vote is in!
U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) stays enforcement of
law banning sale of youth-model motorcycles and ATVs. The CPSC has
voted to stay enforcement of a lead law that currently bans the sale
of youth-model motorcycles and all-terrain vehicles (ATVs). The stay,
which extends through May 1, 2011, follows a unanimous vote by Acting
Chairwoman Nancy Nord and Commissioner Thomas Moore. The AMA
Government Relations Department is currently examining the 25-page
Stay of Enforcement document and will issue more details shortly.

The law in question is the Consumer Product Safety
Improvement Act (CPSIA). Designed to protect children from lead in
toys that might easily end up in children’s mouths, the language of
the legislation has ensnared a number of products that have little
exposure risk, including youth-model motorcycles and ATVs. Despite
the stay, it is unclear whether state attorneys general will also
decline to enforce the CPSIA. The sale of youth-model motorcycles and
ATVs is still technically illegal. Even though a stay means that
dealers would not be subject to fines or penalties imposed by the
CPSC, state attorneys general would still be able to prosecute
violators if they chose to do so.

Source:
www.amadirectlink.com/news/story.asp?id=839

KTM and FMF Racing declare May as “Protect Your
Right to Ride” month. KTM North
America and FMF Racing have partnered together, along with support
from the AMA, BlueRibbon Coalition (BRC), National Off-Highway
Vehicle Conservation Council and the Off-Road Business Association
(ORBA) to declare May “Protect Your Right to Ride” month.
During the month of May, visit a KTM dealer to find out information
about what you can do to protect your right to ride. Each KTM dealer
will supply materials provided by the motorcyclist activist clubs and
organizations that have been fighting for your rights all along.

When you visit your KTM dealer and show your AMA, BRC
and/or ORBA membership card, or choose to sign up for a membership at
the dealership, you will receive an entry toward a chance to win a
brand new KTM 250 XC-FW with an FMF Q4 Titanium exhaust system.
Participants will receive one entry for each of the organizations to
which they belong. For more information, visit www.soundoffmc.com,
a new website designed to provide the latest information about
protecting motorized off-highway recreation.

USDA and Ad Council offer advice on getting faulty
Smokey Bear ad off the air. Late last
summer, after being contacted by the AMA and others, U.S. Forest
Service Chief Abigail Kimbell asked media outlets to stop airing a
Smokey Bear public service announcement (PSA) that unintentionally
implied all all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) pose a fire hazard in
national forests.

Off-highway vehicle organizations complained that the
video not only implied to non-riders that ATVs start forest fires,
but also sent a message to OHV riders that they should stay out of
the forests during the summer.

The Forest Service has agreed to contact those stations
still airing the PSA and request they stop using it, but the Forest
Service needs your help. Please contact the Forest Service with any
details you may have if you see this offensive and erroneous PSA. The
designated contact for this issue is Helene Cleveland, fire
prevention program manager, USDA Forest Service,
hcleveland@fs.fed.us.
Thanks for your help in getting this inappropriate ad completely
removed from the airwaves.

A group of national and state trail advocacy
organizations representing equestrian,
OHV, and bicycling interests recently developed a guide entitled
“Sharing Our Trails – A Guide to Trail Safety and Enjoyment.”
The purpose of the guide is to improve safety and trail satisfaction
for all trail enthusiasts on multiple-use trails. Organizations and
agencies involved in the development of the guide include the
American Motorcyclist Association, American Endurance Ride
Conference, Americans for Responsible Recreational Access, American
Trails, Back Country Horsemen of America, BlueRibbon Coalition,
California State Parks Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Recreation Division,
Cycle Conservation Club of Michigan, Equestrian Land Conservation
Resource, International Mountain Bike Association, Leave No Trace
Center for Outdoor Ethics, Loomis Basin Horsemen’s Association,
Motorcycle Industry Council, National Off-Highway Vehicle
Conservation Council, Off-Road Business Association, Open Beaches -
Trails, Recreational Off-Highway Vehicle Association, Specialty
Vehicle Institute of America, Tread Lightly!, United Four Wheel Drive
Associations and United States Forest Service. The guide can be found
on numerous websites, including
www.atvaonline.com/news/story.asp?id=826.

Rider Eye Tracking Research Program Announced:
Dynamic Research Inc. and the Team Oregon Motorcycle Safety Program
at Oregon State University have teamed up to conduct research on
motorcyclists’ eye tracking habits. This research, funded by the
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is currently
underway. Each year, nearly half of all motorcycle fatalities are due
to single vehicle crashes. Many of these crashes are due to
motorcyclists’ failure to negotiate curves properly. Preliminary
research has shown that riders do not look far enough ahead through
curves and that this might be a contributing factor of single vehicle
crashes at curves. This research strives to identify the role of
sight distance and rider-scanning habits in curves, hazard
identification, and crash avoidance. The subject groups will be
evaluated on a closed course and the open road for the initial spring
2009 testing period, then again following six months and 12 months of
riding experience.

Version 2.0 of the Motorcycle Accident In Depth
Study (MAIDS) is now available at
www.maids-study.eu.
It includes a new presentation of the data with a split between
mopeds (L1) and motorcycles (L3) in both chapters, chapter 3.0
General Accident Characteristics and chapter 10.0 Rationale for
Action. Furthermore, ACEM published the Multivariate Analysis of
Fatal Accident in MAIDS. This report describes the results of a
multivariate analysis of the in-depth motorcycle accident data
collected during the MAIDS project. Data have been presented
according to all powered two-wheelers (PTW), as well as L1 and L3
vehicle categories where appropriate.

There is still time to take the ATVA Rider Survey:
As part of an ongoing effort to help shape the All-Terrain Vehicle
Association (ATVA) into a national ATV riders’ rights association,
and to more effectively communicate with state and local
organizations, a user survey has been created. The survey can be
found at http://tinyurl.com/c3r93x
or www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=fMQoeaRtVFZcCIbYImilwA_3d_3d.
As an added incentive, respondents will be eligible to receive one of
five $50 gift certificates to Rocky Mountain ATV and Motorcycle
(www.rockymountainatv.com).
This survey will be accessible until May 25, 2009. Please tell every
ATV rider you know that the ATVA needs their feedback to shape the
future of ATVA.

Sacramento, Calif.: Senate Bill 435, sponsored
by Senator Fran Pavley (D-32^nd
District) would mandate motorcycle smog testing for all model year
2000 and newer class III bikes (over 280cc). As proposed, the test
would be implemented in 2012 despite the lack of any evidence that
motorcycles are a significant source of mobile emissions statewide.
In fact, California’s motorcycle engine emission standards are
already the strictest in the nation, and were just reduced again for
model year 2008 and newer motorcycles.

Go to
http://capwiz.com/amacycle//issues/alert/?alertID=12937506
to send an e-mail to the state legislature opposing this unwarranted
proposal. Current program cost estimates include spending more than
$400,000 just to modify the DMV’s vehicle registration computer
system to identify motorcycles that would be required to take the
test.

Oceano, Calif.: A lawsuit has been filed seeking to
close the popular Oceano Dunes State
Vehicular Recreation Area (ODSVRA). The Center for Biological
Diversity (CBD) recently filed a formal notice of intent to sue the
California Department of Parks and Recreation over its ongoing
authorization of motorized vehicle use at the popular recreation site
for alleged mortality of wintering snowy plovers, a threatened
species of bird. The ODSVRA, located in southern San Luis Obispo
County, includes approximately 1,500 acres of sand dunes and 5.5
miles of beach areas open for use by motorized vehicles.

The site is operated and managed by the Department of
Parks and Recreation’s Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Recreation Division.
Street-legal vehicles can be operated on the beach in the entire
Recreation Area, while the southern portion is also open to
off-highway vehicles and camping. The notice announced the CBD’s
intent to sue the Department if it fails to take action to prevent
injury to snowy plovers.

Ride to Work Day turnout expected to increase.
This year’s 18th commuting demonstration event, to be held on Monday,
June 15, is expected to double the number of riders on the road,
according to Ride to Work, a non-profit advocacy organization.

According to the United States Census Bureau and the
Department of Transportation, more than 80 million cars and light
trucks are used for daily commuting on American roads, and about
200,000 motorcycles and scooters are a regular part of this mix. On
Ride To Work Day, the practical side of riding becomes more visible
as a larger number of America’s 8 million cycles and scooters are
ridden to work.

Ride to Work Day shows how riding makes parking easier
and helps traffic flow better. Motorcycles and scooters consume fewer
resources per mile than automobiles, and they take up less space in
parking areas and on roads. Riders seek employer support for this
form of transportation, and increased government and public awareness
about riding’s many benefits.

More information about Ride to Work Day can be found at:
www.ridetowork.org/

Imperial Sand Dunes Recreation Area (ISDRA)
fee increase
proposed. The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) believes that an
increase in visitor fees is necessary due to the requirement to
provide trash service, increased road maintenance expense, other
economy-based increases, and a reduction in revenue due to reduced
permit sales. This fee increase would be effective as of Oct. 1,
2009. The BLM will present its recommendations to the California
Recreation Resource Advisory Committee (RRAC) on May 13, 2009, in
Vallejo, Calif. Written comments can be submitted prior to the
meeting for consideration by the RRAC. For more information regarding
this proposal go to:
www.fs.fed.us/r5/passes/rrac/meetings/may2009/blm6.php.

The Utah Trail Machine Association (UTMA),
in partnership with the Utah Four Wheel Drive Association (U4WDA), is
reviving its annual clean-up day at Five Mile Pass and would like to
invite your organization to join them this Memorial Day
weekend on Saturday, May 23, at the main Five Mile Pass staging area.

This event is being sponsored by the UTMA and the U4WDA
and the organizations would like to be able to include your club as a
co-sponsor. The event has the full cooperation of the Bureau of Land
Management and the Department of Natural Resources. To learn more
about the event, visit UTMA at www.utma.net/
and click on High Five Project at Five Mile Pass.

Source:
www.utma.net/home/content/high-five-5-mile-cleanup

Rancho Cordova, Calif.: World famous
Rubicon Trail to remain open. The
Central Valley Regional Water Quality Control Board voted unanimously
to issue a Cleanup and Abatement Order (CAO) to El Dorado County and
the Eldorado National Forest for the Rubicon Trail that sustains
continued motorized recreation while also enhancing stewardship of
the trail. More than 300 recreationists were present at the recent
public hearing, providing a reminder to members of the water board
just how much members of the public care about this cherished trail.
The revised CAO is a much less prescriptive order than originally
proposed, and calls for general consideration and planning but does
not mandate specific actions, instead requiring the county and the
Forest Service to work together to meet the specified timelines.

Source: www.rubicontrailfoundation.org/

AMA Action Alert for Youth Mcys and ATVs

Help needed to change law to exclude youth-model motorcycles and ATVs

Change the Law to Exclude Youth-Model Motorcycles and ATVs!	Take Action!
Write your Representatives Today!
The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has voted to stay enforcement of the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008 (CPSIA) that currently bans the sale of youth-model motorcycles and all-terrain vehicles (ATVs). The stay, which extends through May 1, 2011, follows a unanimous vote by Acting Chairman Nancy Nord and Commissioner Thomas Moore. While we applaud the CPSC commissioners’ vote to stay enforcement of the law, this does not solve the real issue, which is the law itself. Despite the stay, it is unclear whether state attorneys general will also decline to enforce the CPSIA. The sale of youth-model motorcycles and ATVs is still technically illegal. Even though a stay means that dealers would not be subject to fines or penalties imposed by the CPSC, state attorneys general would still be able to prosecute violators if they chose to do so. Youth-model motorcycles and ATVs should be exempt from the law, and Congress needs to act to make that happen. Motorcyclists and ATV riders need to let Congress know that we are concerned about the law, and that we want youth-model OHVs excluded from the law. We need your help to let our lawmakers know how we feel. Riders should contact their Representatives and ask them to support H.R. 1587, introduced by Rep. Denny Rehberg, to exempt youth-sized motorcycles and ATVs from the CPSIA. You can find contact information for your elected officials on AmericanMotorcyclist.com, click on “Rights,” then “Issues & Legislation,” and enter your zip code in the “Find your Officials” box. Additionally, a prewritten e-mail is available for you to send to your Representative immediately by following the “Take Action” option and entering your information. For more ways you can help to exclude youth-model motorcycles and ATVs from the CPSIA or for more information about the issue, click here. Please write or call your Representative today and ask them to support H.R. 1587 to exclude youth-model motorcycles and ATVs from the CPSIA lead content requirements.

AMA- News and Notes- May 2009

Content Copyright 2009
American Motorcyclist Association

May 2009

News & Notes is a monthly publication compiled and edited by the AMA’s Government Relations Department. Designed to inform motorcyclists of ‘rights’-related issues and events around the world, we welcome your news & views. Suggestions and contributions can be sent to Sheila Andrews, Legislative Assistant, American Motorcyclist Association, by e-mail at sandrews@ama-cycle.org

*************************

Sign up and stay informed: AMA’s electronic Action Alerts and News & Notes will keep you informed on hot topics, news affecting the motorcycling community, and opportunities to communicate with your elected officials. By signing up to receive AMA Action Alerts, you will be notified by e-mail when you can make a difference on important issues. Click here to see the most recent Action Alerts, and click here to sign up.
In addition to signing up for our Action Alerts, you can sign up to receive AMA’s monthly electronic edition of News & Notes. News & Notes will keep you informed on motorcycle-related issues and events around the world. Click here and check the “Sign me up for AMA’s Government Relations News & Notes” box at the bottom of the page.

Pickerington, Ohio: The AMA urges action to end the ban on the sale of youth-model motorcycles and ATVs (all-terrain vehicles). The AMA is encouraging its members and all concerned motorcyclists to push their federal lawmakers and the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) to exclude youth-model motorcycles and ATVs from the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA). AMA members and others can take action by visiting www.AmericanMotorcyclist.com, clicking on the “Rights” section and then “Issues and Legislation.” AMA members will also find a self-addressed card in the May issue of American Motorcyclist that they can mail directly to the CPSC. The AMA would like to thank all its members who, by the tens of thousands, contacted their federal lawmakers urging them to support two bipartisan Congressional letters to the CPSC asking the Commissioners to exclude youth-model motorcycles and ATVs from the CPSIA. The letters to the CPSC were sent April 2.

Source: http://www.amadirectlink.com/news/story.asp?id=767

ATVA Rider Survey Announced: As part of an ongoing effort to help shape the All-Terrain Vehicle Association (ATVA) into a national ATV riders’ rights association, a user survey has been launched. The survey can be found at http://tinyurl.com/c3r93x or http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=fMQoeaRtVFZcCIbYImilwA_3d_3d. As an added incentive, respondents will be eligible to receive one of five $50.00 gift certificates to Rocky Mountain ATV and Motorcycle (http://www.rockymountainatv.com). This survey will be accessible until May 25, 2009. Please tell every ATV rider you know that the ATVA needs their feedback in order to capture what is important to them and shape the ATVA accordingly.

Omnibus Public Lands Bill Passes: Despite widespread objection from AMA members, riders and the general public, and a previous failure of the measure in the House, Congress has voted to close more than 2 million acres of public land to off-highway vehicle (OHV) recreation. By a 285-to-140 vote, U.S. House Members on March 25 approved a bill that consisted of more than 160 individual pieces of legislation, in over 1200 pages and devastated access to public lands nationwide for off-highway motorcycles, all-terrain vehicles and all other motorized recreation. Following congressional maneuvering that breathed new life into the measure after it was defeated, the lawmakers approved amendments to H.R. 146, known as the Revolutionary War and War of 1812 Battlefield Acquisition Grant Program. This bill was formerly known as S. 22, the Omnibus Public Land Management Act of 2009.

Source: http://www.amadirectlink.com/news/story.asp?id=760

Washington, D.C.: The U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure passed House Resolution 269, a bill entitled “Supporting the goals of a motorcycle safety month.” The bills sponsor is Rep. Gabrielle Giffords (D-AZ-8), who is co-chair of the Congressional Motorcycle Safety Caucus and an avid rider. Rep. Giffords was joined by fellow co-chair of the Motorcycle Safety Caucus, Rep. Michael Burgess M.D. (R-TX-26), as an original co-sponsor.

The bill encourages all road users to be more aware of motorcyclists and their safety. In addition it encourages all riders to take appropriate rider training and learn safe riding skills. The bill is now headed to the House floor for a full vote. Riders are encouraged to contact their representatives to request their support for H.R. 269.

Nominate your Recreational Trails Program-funded project for this year’s Annual Achievement Awards. The Coalition for Recreational Trails (CRT), a federation of national and regional trail-related organizations, has just announced their 2009 achievement awards to recognize outstanding trail projects funded by the national Recreational Trails Program (RTP). The awards will be presented in Washington, D.C. during Great Outdoors Week 2009 (June 8-13) as part of the Coalition’s ongoing effort to build awareness and appreciation of this highly successful program, which has greatly enhanced the quantity and quality of trail experiences available to the public. They are planning to hold the awards ceremony on Capitol Hill and will encourage members of Congress to join in honoring the outstanding achievements of their constituents.
Award winners will be selected from projects nominated by public agencies, trail administrators or other project sponsors. Projects must be completed in order to receive an award. The form and any supporting materials, including pictures, should be submitted by April 17, 2009 to the Co-Chair of the Coalition’s Awards Committee. For more information, including how to apply, and to view past award winners, check out the American Trails Awards page at: http://www.americantrails.org/awards/CRTawards.html.

Riverside, Calif.: A protest event in defiance of the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA) of 2008, which prohibits the sale of youth motorcycles and all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) deemed unhealthy for children 12 years of age and under, was recently held at Malcolm Smith Motorsports. As a sign of support, a group of small business owners and numerous motorcycle industry celebrities were on hand. Three people actually purchased the banned units for use by their own children and grandchildren. Go to http://www.kidslove2ride.com/ for more information.

Washington, D.C.: House Resolution 1253 has passed. Sponsored by Rep. Michael C. Burgess M.D. (R-TX-26) and cosponsored by Rep. Bart Stupak (D-MI-1). H.R. 1253 would require that people signing up for a health plan to receive in writing an explanation of treatment limits or non-covered conditions, along with other plan limitations, “in a form that is easily understandable.” This legislation is supported by several organizations, including the AMA, Motorcycle Industry Council, American Council of Snowmobile Associations, American Horse Council, American Recreation Coalition, American Trails, Americans for Responsible Recreational Access, Blue Ribbon Coalition, International Mountain Bicycling Association, Motorcycle Riders Foundation, National Ski Areas Association, Specialty Vehicle Industry Council, Sporting Goods Manufacturing Association, the Washington Road Riders Association, and many others.
Source: http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/144567.php

Farmington, N.M.: The Bureau of Land Management (BLM), Farmington Field Office, has proposed creating 38 miles of trail for ATVs in the Glade Run Recreation Area. As proposed, the 38-mile ATV trail would require minimal creation of new trails. Initial estimates map only three new miles of trail needed to connect existing trails, washes and dirt roadways that would create the new loop. As proposed, the new route would prohibit 4×4s from using the full trail loop. An Environmental Assessment will be released for comment and available on their website at http://www.blm.gov/nm/st/en/fo/Farmington_Field_Office.html.

Olympia, Wash.: The Washington Off-Highway Vehicle Alliance (WOHVA), an organization working to protect and enhance safe and responsible motorized outdoor recreation in the state of Washington, held their yearly rally on the capitol steps in Olympia on March 13, 2009. Guest speakers included State Senators, Congressmen, the Mayor of Washougal and many others. Issues raised included a proposed OHV fund raid, ongoing land closures and restrictions on the sale and use of motorcycles designed for children 12 years of age and under. Go to http://www.wohva.org for more details.

San Jose, Calif.: A first of its kind “24 Hours of Electricross” event was held at San Jose’s 408MX Motocross track. The event had two goals: to set the Guinness World Records for largest electric motorcycle race (10 teams participated) and for the furthest distance travelled on an all-electric off-road motorcycle in 24 hours. After 24 hours of non-stop racing, team Hotchaulk with 1,015 laps completed and just over 500 ridden miles, was declared the winner. Go to http://www.zeromotorcycles.com/electricross/ for a full event report.

Pickerington, Ohio: Ohio off-roaders participate in public riding forum. The state of Ohio is looking at creating a new riding area for off-highway motorcycles, ATVs and 4×4 trucks that could be open within a year. Dameyon Shipley, the state’s recreation services administrator, told the approximately 40 OHV enthusiasts attending the meeting that the state has set aside about $240,000 in OHV registration money and about $500,000 in grant money to use for the project. The size of the dedicated riding area will depend on where land is available and whether it will be leased or bought outright. The meeting was one in a series being held statewide to identify the issues and needs of motorized users of the state’s public trails systems. The meetings will help the Office of Trails as it compiles the standalone Motorized Trails Plan for Ohio, which will provide a vision for the next three to five years and will help guide the office as it addresses the needs of Ohio’s trail users.

Source: http://www.amadirectlink.com/news/story.asp?id=745

Springfield, Ill.: A House Committee tabled legislation on March 11 by a 17-3 vote that would have made it illegal for anyone under the age of 16 to operate or be a passenger of ATVs or dirt bikes. The bill also would have made it illegal to transport a passenger on an ATV or dirt bike even if the vehicle was equipped to carry a passenger. The measure, House Bill 3914, which was introduced by Rep. Mary Flowers (D-Chicago), required fast action by the motorcycling and ATV communities, and they responded. Many, using the AMA’s Legislative Alerts system, flooded lawmakers with expressions of concern about the bill. A large group of enthusiasts from ABATE of Illinois, AMA District 17, IMDA (Illinois Motorcycle Dealers Association), track owners and dealers, showed their opposition to the bill by attending the public hearing. Although the bill was defeated, it remains in committee and can be brought up again at any time.

Source: http://www.amadirectlink.com/news/story.asp?id=728

Tennessee & North Carolina State Line Basin: Recreation groups were disappointed by a U.S. Forest Service decision to implement an emergency closure order at the Upper Tellico OHV area. According to the Southern Four Wheel Drive Association (SFWDA), the BlueRibbon Coalition (BRC) and United Four Wheel Drive Associations (UFWDA), the Forest Service has failed to make the case with regard to alleged adverse effects and resource damages, as there is simply no immediate threat to public health, safety, or other requisite finding required by such an order. Water quality standards cited by the Forest Supervisor as the basis for the order are not being exceeded. In formal comments made to the Forest Service, the OHV community and other interested parties clearly demonstrated that such a closure has no scientific basis.

Source: http://www.sharetrails.org/releases/media/?story=638

Keystone, Colo.: Seminars have been announced for the 2009 AMA International Women & Motorcycling Conference, presented by Harley-Davidson and Buell. Set for August 19-22, the fifth AMA International Women & Motorcycling Conference will be the most informative ever. Registration is $165 through August 3, which includes conference materials and a commemorative T-shirt. Registration after August 3, as well as on-site registration, will cost $185. Participants can register now at www.womenandmotorcycling.com or by calling (800) AMA-JOIN. While the event focuses on women riders, it is not for only for women. Men are also welcome to participate with a paid registration. Sign up for e-mail alerts by e-mailing the AMA at info@womenandmotorcycling.com.

Copyright 2009, American Motorcyclist Association

AMA- Legislative Alert 3-24

Take Action
Omnibus Public Lands Bill to be Voted on Tomorrow!
The American Motorcyclist Association urges everyone to contact their Representative to vote “No” on the rule and on the final passage of H.R. 146, the Revolutionary War and War of 1812 Battlefield Acquisition Grant Program. This bill was formerly known as S. 22, the Omnibus Public Land Management Act of 2009, which would prohibit all motorized vehicle access on over 2 million acres of public lands.

As you may know, S. 22 was defeated two weeks ago, on March 11, in the U.S. House of Representatives. Following defeat of the bill, the U.S. Senate leadership, using a little known parliamentary procedure, considered H.R. 146, inserting the language from S. 22, and passed the bill on March 19 by a vote of 77 to 20.

Now H.R. 146 is back for consideration in the U.S. House of Representatives and consists of a daunting collection of more than 160 pieces of legislation in over 1300 pages of text. It is because of this that, for parliamentary reasons, the House Leadership wants to consider H.R. 146 under regular order. This would mean that the bill needs only a simple majority to pass. In order for this bill to be considered under regular order, the U.S. House must first pass a rule.

Therefore, in order to help preserve your access to vital public lands, everyone needs to contact their Representative and urge them to first vote “No” on the rule regarding H.R. 146. Then they must also be asked to vote “No” on the final passage of H.R. 146.

With such a short time frame for action, the best way to request that your Representative to vote “No” on H.R. 146 is to call. Click here to get the phone number for your Representative Enter your zip code in the “Find Your Officials” box and click on the name of your Representative.

If you would prefer to contact your Representative with e-mail, you may contact your Representative by clicking here. We have pre-written a letter for your use.

Immediate action is critical to help keep more than 2 million acres of public land open to motorized recreation. Please call your Representative and tell everyone you can to do the same.

Every Representative must know that responsible motorized recreationists want them to vote “No” on the rule and “No” on the final passage of H.R. 146!

Urgent Legislative alert from AMA

Omnibus Public Lands Bill to be Voted on Monday, March 16!

Call your Senators NOW!

The American Motorcyclist Association urges everyone to contact their Senators to vote “No” on H.R. 146, the Revolutionary War and War of 1812 Battlefield Acquisition Grant Program. This bill was formerly known as S. 22, the Omnibus Public Land Management Act of 2009, which would prohibit all motorized vehicle access including motorcycles and ATVs on over 2 million acres of public lands. As you may know, S. 22 was defeated just days ago on March 11 in the U.S. House of Representatives.

Now, following defeat of the bill, the U.S. Senate leadership is expected to employ a little used parliamentary procedure that allows them to overcome the outcome of the House vote on S. 22.

The U.S. House of Representatives preserved your access to vital public lands when S. 22 fell two votes short of the two-thirds majority needed to pass on March 11th. The successful defeat of the bill was only accomplished after thousands of concerned individuals, like you, contacted their Representatives to tell them to oppose the legislation. However, the Senate Leadership wants to try and un-do that success by bringing the bill back as a 1,300 page amendment to an unrelated bill for a vote as early as Monday.

With such a short time frame for action, the best way to tell your Senators to vote “No” on H.R. 146 is to call. Click here to get the phone number for your Senators. Enter your zip code in the “Find Your Officials” box and click on the name of your Senators.

If you would prefer to contact your Senators with e-mail, you may contact your Senators by clicking here. We have pre-written a letter for your use.

Immediate action is critical to help keep 2.1 million acres of public land open to motorized recreation. Please call your Senators and tell everyone you can to do the same.

AMA News and Notes- April 2009

News & Notes is a monthly publication compiled and edited by the American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) Government Relations Department. Designed to inform motorcyclists of ‘rights’-related issues and events around the world, News and Notes welcomes your input. Suggestions and contributions can be sent to Sheila Andrews, AMA Legislative Assistant, by e-mail at sandrews@ama-cycle.org.

Sign up and stay informed: AMA’s electronic Action Alerts and News & Notes will keep you informed on hot topics, news affecting the motorcycling community, and opportunities to communicate with your elected officials. By signing up to receive AMA Action Alerts, you will be notified by e-mail when you can make a difference on important issues. Click here to see the most recent Action Alerts, and click here to sign up.
In addition to signing up for our Action Alerts, you can sign up to receive AMA’s monthly electronic edition of News & Notes. News & Notes will keep you informed on motorcycle-related issues and events around the world. Click here and check the “Sign me up for AMA’s Government Relations News & Notes” box at the bottom of the page.

All Youth OHV Sales Halted: Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CSPIA) shuts down all sales of youth model off-highway vehicles (OHVs). Citing a law that regulates lead levels in children’s products, the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has effectively banned the sale of all youth OHVs as of Feb. 10, 2009. The AMA is calling on everyone to take action now to help reverse the potentially devastating effect this could have on OHV recreation. Go to: http://www.amadirectlink.com/news/story.asp?id=629 to see the full story. To read the AMA’s comments to the CPSC visit: http://www.amadirectlink.com/news/story.asp?id=595

Omnibus Public Lands Bill (S22): A major wilderness bill that was supposed to be a quick victory for the new congressional majority is now on hold due to a lack of support in the House of Representatives. The measure, Senate Bill 22, also known as the Omnibus Public Lands Bill, is actually a package of more than 160 bills that were melded together to create a single bill of more than 1,300 pages in length.

Every AMA member, off-highway motorcyclist, all-terrain vehicle (ATV) rider and anyone who supports responsible outdoor recreation is urged to continue contacting their senators and representatives and ask them to reject this bill. The measure would ban motorized recreation on 2.1 million acres of public land and inappropriately designate it as Wilderness. The procedure used for fast-tracking this bill through the U.S. Senate and House clearly violates the spirit of open and democratic government. For the full release and a link to a rapid response letter on this issue go to: http://www.amadirectlink.com/news/story.asp?id=592

Illinois Bill Would Prohibit Youth Riding: House Bill 3914, introduced by Rep. Mary Flowers (D-Chicago), would make it illegal for anyone under the age of 16 to operate an ATV or off-highway motorcycle (OHM). Further, the proposed legislation would make it illegal to transport a passenger on an ATV or OHM regardless of whether the vehicle is configured for a passenger. The bill would also require ATV and OHM riders to have a valid driver’s license and wear a helmet. This legislation was referred to the Committee on Rules on February 26. The text of HB-3914 is available on the “Rights” page of http://www.americanmotorcyclist.com. Additional updates will be posted as they become available.

AMA, others blast pending OHV study as flawed. Nine national off-highway vehicle (OHV) groups, including the AMA, recently sent a letter to the federal Government Accountability Office (GAO) noting that an ongoing GAO study on OHV use is flawed in such a way that any findings will be skewed against OHV use on federal lands.

A principal component of the study is a survey of federal land managers that ostensibly seeks to determine trends in the amount of OHV use, potential environmental and human health and safety impacts and how federal agencies are managing OHV use and enforcing OHV regulations. Managers from the Bureau of Land Management, National Park Service and the U.S. Forest Service received the survey and were asked to respond.

This letter was signed by representatives of Americans for Responsible Recreational Access, the AMA, The BlueRibbon Coalition, Motorcycle Industry Council, National Off-Highway Vehicle Conservation Council, Off-Road Business Association, Recreational Off-Highway Vehicle Association, Specialty Vehicle Institute of America and the United Four Wheel Drive Associations.

The letter noted that GAO’s survey questions ignore ongoing federal management activities and are ambiguous, subjective and lack context. Both the BLM and the USFS are currently engaged in multi-year efforts to improve OHV management by designating which trails are open for motorized use on each unit and forest.

Source: http://www.amadirectlink.com/news/story.asp?id=600

The National 4-H Headquarters, in collaboration between National 4-H Council and the ATV Safety Institute, has announced a request for proposals for its 2009 ATV Safety grants. Please contact your local county 4-H office if you are interested in partnering with them to promote ATV safety. The application Deadline is Tuesday, March 24, 2009, 5PM, EST

Information and the grant application can be found at www.atv-youth.org. If you have any questions, contact Sheila Chaconas, 4-H ATV Safety Account Manage, at 301-961-2858.

California bill proposes emissions testing for motorcycles. Recently, California State Senator Fran Pavley introduced legislation that would “amend Section 44011 of, and to add Section 44012.5 to, the Health and Safety Code, relating to air pollution.” If passed this legislation would require motorcycle owners in California to get smog checks for their motorcycles once every two years. The law would take effect January 1, 2012 and cover all on-highway motorcycles model year 2000 or newer. A majority vote would be required to pass this new legislation into law and could occur any time after March 28. Visit http://www.leginfo.ca.gov/pub/09-10/bill/sen/sb_0401-0450/sb_435_bill_20090226_introduced.html to see the full text of the bill. Opponents of the bill say that that it is simply a thinly veiled attempt to levy yet another fee to offset the states record budget deficit and point to last month’s raid of the OHV trust fund of $90 million dollars for non-OHV related expenditures. The bikes potentially affected are in fact the cleanest in the nation, having already been required to meet the stricter CA emissions standards years prior to similar requirements being adopted by the EPA.

Motorcyclists benefit from historic economic stimulus bill. Language that provides a tax deduction for the purchase of a motorcycle has been added to the recent economic stimulus bill. The AMA, in conjunction with other stakeholders, worked diligently to secure the motorcycle provision within the measure.

Specifically, motorcycles are included as “qualified vehicles” in Section 1008 of the legislation. Those purchasing a new motorcycle will be able to deduct the sales and excise taxes on their 2009 tax returns. Prior to the actions taken by the AMA, Harley Davidson and others, the deductions applied only to the purchase of a new car or light truck. Details of the deduction, which are currently being developed by the Treasury Department, will be provided in a future News and Notes.

Source: http://www.amadirectlink.com/news/story.asp?id=627

The AMA is looking for Public Service Announcements (PSAs) that have been produced by state motorcyclists’ rights organizations and request that links to or copies of PSAs be sent to the AMA for inclusion in a resources library. Recently, at the 12th annual Hoosier Motorcyclist Roundtable, attendees were made aware of eight online PSAs produced by ABATE of Indiana. These videos, and others like them, are excellent examples of what is being done in the field to promote motorcycle safety, awareness, and rider education. Visit http://www.igot2know.com/index.php?videoid=1752&partnerid=71 to view the videos.

The AMA has announced the creation of three separate one million-dollar endowments for the AMA’s Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum, the Association’s government relations activities and its amateur racing programs. AMA President and CEO Rob Dingman made the announcement at a press conference preceding the opening of the annual Dealernews International Powersports Dealer Expo in Indianapolis.

“We are very pleased to be able to make these substantial commitments to three of the AMA’s most cherished activities: the Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum, the advocacy efforts of our Government Relations Department, and the amateur racing series and championships enjoyed by tens of thousands of AMA members,” Dingman said.

Source: http://www.amadirectlink.com/news/story.asp?id=616

North Port, Florida: City leaders discuss cancelling an OHV ordinance that prohibits ATV use and camping on city-owned land and private property. North Port’s tracts of undeveloped land historically drew many OHV users, but some area residents complained about noise and feared the activity would hurt property values. Recently city commission chairwoman Vanessa Carusone, an ATV rider herself, said the law is flawed and said a group of citizens asked her to propose its repeal. People who break the camping-ATV law repeatedly face up to a $1,000 fine or 90 days in jail.

Source: http://www.heraldtribune.com/article/20090303/ARTICLE/903030389

Ohio: Public forums will help guide future of off-highway recreation. Ohio is one of the most popular states in the country for off-highway vehicle sales and recreation. To identify the issues and needs of motorized users of the state’s public trails systems, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources Office of Trails will hold meetings in four locations around the state, including one sponsored by the AMA and held near the Association’s offices in Pickerington. The meetings will help the Office of Trails as it compiles the standalone Motorized Trails Plan for Ohio, which will provide a vision for the next three to five years that will guide the Office as it addresses the needs of Ohio’s trail users.

Source: http://www.amadirectlink.com/news/story.asp?id=668

NAPLES, Florida: Collier and Miami-Dade County officials are considering whether to turn an old airport into an OHV park. The property is mostly located in Collier County and was originally a 13,000-foot runway. Officials think they can create 20 miles of trail for OHVs such as ATVs and dirt bikes. Camping, fishing, piers and possibly an archery range are also being considered.

Source: http://www.palmbeachpost.com/search/content/gen/ap/FL_Off_Road_Park.html

London, England: Motor Cycle Industry Association (MCI) announces Code of Conduct as London launches City-Wide Experimental Bus Lane Access for Powered Two Wheelers. To coincide with the recent opening of London’s primary route bus lanes to motorcyclists, the MCI has announced a new Code of Conduct for motorcyclists who will be enjoying the new freedom to use bus lanes. The Code has been developed in partnership with the London Police and is supported by motorcycle riders’ groups, the media and motorcycle dealerships.

The Code contains guidance and gives information to motorcyclists about the safe and responsible use of bus lanes. The most important point is that bus lanes are shared road space and are also used by other vulnerable road users such as cyclists.

Source: http://www.acem.eu/NWSL/newsl18/buslanes.htm

France: Motorcycle riders are protesting a new motorcycle specific law that takes effect in April. This law will allow a law enforcement officer to order any motorcycle towed for an inspection to ensure legal conformity. Further angering riders is the fact that the law does not stipulate any requirements for the person inspecting the motorcycle.

After the owner has completed any required “repairs” the bike must again be verified. Adding insult to injury, any owner whose bike is inspected and found to be in compliance will still be required to pay any costs associated with the inspection.

Source: http://www.motosportsbusiness.com/new-french-motorcycle-laws-protest-nest-pas/

Championed by the KMA/KBA (Kentucky Motorcycle Association / Kentucky Bikers Association), on March 5 the Kentucky Senate adopted Senate Resolution 86, designating May 2009 as Motorcycle Awareness Month. SR-86 urges all Kentuckians to share the road and keep motorcycle safety in mind as they travel the Commonwealth’s streets and highways.

IL Helmet Bill Advances to Senate Floor

Senate Bill passes out of committee and House bill still sitting in committee

SB1351- VEHICLE CODE-MOTORCYCLE HELMETS-
3/5- Do Pass as Amended Public Health; 006-004-000
Placed on Calendar Order of 2nd Reading March 6, 2009
Senate Sponsors
Sen. Donne E. Trotter - Heather Steans and Jeffrey M. Schoenberg

HB0925- VEHICLE CODE-MOTORCYCLE HELMETS-
Vehicles & Safety Committee Hearing Mar 11 2009 8:30AM
Capitol Building Room 115 Springfield, IL
Rep. Karen A. Yarbrough