December 2011

            Washington, D.C.: Help protect the Recreational Trails Program (RTP). U.S. Rep. Larry Bucshon (R-Ind.) will be introducing legislation to amend the coming national transportation bill that would allow governors to take RTP funds away, along with other critical transportation dollars.

            This bill would allow governors to declare a “transportation facility” to be in a state of emergency and subsequently use all of its state highway funds for that project. This would allow them to de-fund nearly the entire Federal-Aid Highway program at their own discretion. Not only the RTP, but the full Surface Transportation Program is directly threatened.

            RTP is a “user-pay/user-benefit” program created to return a modest portion of the fuel taxes paid by off-highway vehicle owners to state trails programs. This program is a benefit to recreationists who use the trails system. RTP is also responsible for only 0.2 percent of the overall funding of the highway program.

            Riders are asked to contact their representative immediately and tell them NOT to support Bucshon’s legislation to amend the highway bill. 

            Source and full story: http://capwiz.com/amacycle/issues/alert/?alertid=55419581

            Washington, D.C.: The AMA applauds U.S. Rep. Jim Sensenbrenner (R-Wis.) for introducing a bill that calls for new research into the effects of certain ethanol-blended gasoline.

            On Friday, Oct. 14, Sensenbrenner, who is vice chairman of the House Committee on Science, Space and Technology, introduced H.R. 3199. This legislation would require the federal Environmental Protection Agency to seek an independent scientific analysis of the effects of E15 -- a new gasoline formulation that contains up to 15 percent alcohol by volume -- on engines.

            The AMA and All-Terrain Vehicle Association have expressed serious concerns about E15 being mistakenly used and damaging engines in motorcycles and ATVs, and about the continued availability of gasoline that has no ethanol, or gasoline with only a 10 percent blend, that is safe for use in motorcycles and ATVs.

            The organizations have also expressed concerns about the possibility that "blender pumps" that dispense multiple grades of gasoline through a single hose might introduce enough ethanol into gasoline to be used in a motorcycle or ATV to damage the vehicle; and that ethanol absorbs water, which could be harmful to motorcycles and ATVs.

            Source and full story: http://capwiz.com/amacycle/issues/alert/?alertid=54681921  

            Washington, D.C.: On Oct. 11, the Subcommittee on Courts, Commercial and Administrative Law of the U.S. House Judiciary Committee held a hearing on H.R. 1996, the "Government Litigation Savings Act." To view testimony and an archive webcast of the hearing, click here.

            H.R. 1996 and its companion legislation, Senate Bill 1061, were introduced on May 25 by Rep. Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.) and Sen. John Barrasso (R-Wyo.). This legislation seeks to prevent abuse of the Equal Access to Justice Act (EAJA) by large environmental groups and others who frequently challenge the federal government in court.

            This legislation would return EAJA to its original intent by instituting targeted reforms on who is eligible to receive EAJA reimbursements, limit repeated lawsuits, and reinstate tracking and reporting requirements to make EAJA more transparent.

            According to a press release issued by Lummis, "EAJA was passed as a permanent appropriation in 1980 in order to help individuals, small businesses and non-profit organizations with limited access to financial resources defend themselves against harmful government actions. EAJA allows for the reimbursement of attorney's fees and costs associated with suing the federal government. When operating correctly, EAJA allows plaintiffs who sue the federal government to recover part of their attorney's fees and costs if they "prevail" in the case."

            Source and full story: http://capwiz.com/amacycle/issues/alert/?alertid=49857501

           Springerville, Ariz.: Officials of the Black Mesa Ranger District want someone to form an Off-Highway Vehicle User’s Group to cooperate with the U.S. Forest Service to maintain existing motorized trails and propose new ones in the Forest Lakes area of the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests. Officials hope to create a trail system that extends across the entire district, but community support is needed. For more information, contact Recreation Staff Officer Meckenzie Helmandollar at (928) 535-7300.

 Source and full story: http://www.paysonroundup.com/news/2011/oct/28/forest-lakes-atv-trails-receive-facelift/

            Irvine, Calif.: The Motorcycle Industry Council (MIC) presented Kawasaki Motor Corporation’s Director of Public and Government Affairs Roger Hagie with the prestigious 2011 MIC Chairman’s Award at the MIC Communications Symposium held in Carson, California on Oct. 27.

            For the past six years, the MIC has presented the annual Chairman’s Award to groups and individuals who have made special contributions of time, leadership and effort, to preserve, protect and promote the powersports community.

            Prior to retiring this past summer, Hagie was an active member of the MIC Board of Directors, the Motorcycle Safety Foundation Board of Trustees, the Specialty Vehicle Institute of America Board of Trustees and the Recreational Off-Highway Vehicle Association Board of Directors.

            In addition to serving on these various association boards and their technical committees, Hagie also often functioned as chairman, vice chairman or secretary/treasurer.

            Source and full story: http://www.mic.org/news103111.cfm

            Springfield, Ill.: A recent Illinois Supreme Court ruling allows legislators and the governor to take money from special state funds and use it to bolster the state’s general fund, but Gov. Pat Quinn’s administration said it has no plans to do so in the next budget year.

            Justices voted 6-1 that it was legal for then-Gov. Rod Blagojevich to take $1.2 million from the Cycle Rider Safety Training Fund after a 2004 law gave him power to do so.

            The state transfers a percentage of motorcycle registration fees into the fund each year to provide a safety training program. In August, the fund held about $10.8 million, according to the court’s opinion, which was written by Justice Anne Burke.

            ABATE of Illinois sued after Blagojevich took the money, arguing that the Cycle Rider Safety Training Fund is an irrevocable private trust. The group argued that the fund might contain federal and private funds as well as state revenue and that it all became private once deposited. The court disagreed, saying there was no evidence that private or federal money was deposited into the fund.

            Raiding special funds was a controversial way to deal with budget deficits during the Blagojevich administration. The court’s ruling, its first on the subject, opens the door to more raids.

            Source and full story: http://www.foxillinois.com/news/illinois/Illinois-Supreme-Court-State-money-cannot-be-special-132774418.html

            Pickerington, Ohio: The on- and off-highway motorcycle sound resources page has been revamped on the AMA website. This includes information about Sound Advice, a document that addresses the excessive motorcycle sound issue, a video explanation of how to sound test a motorcycle, model legislation and more.

            Since its inception in 1924, the AMA has maintained a position of strong opposition to excessive motorcycle sound. The AMA has funded information and public relations campaigns in support of quieter motorcycle use, and was the world’s first motorsports sanctioning body to regulate and reduce the sound level of racing vehicles.

            Source and full story: www.americanmotorcyclist.com/Rights/SoundAdvice.aspx

            Corvallis, Ore.: Oregon State Police and the Linn County Sheriff's Office are asking for the public's help in finding the thieves who stole a Team Oregon motorcycle training safety program pickup and trailer loaded with motorcycles and scooters. The truck and trailer were taken from a secured lot on the Oregon State University campus and were recovered abandoned early the next day by Linn County deputies. However seven motorcycles and two scooters, which are used for the motorcycle safety training program, are still missing.

            Anyone with any related information is asked to contact the OSP Oregon State University Area Command Office at (541) 737-3010. The lead investigator is Trooper Brittany Phelps.

            Source and full story: http://www.kptv.com/story/15920192/trailer-full-of-motorcycles-stolen-from-osu-campus-lot

            Salem, Ore.: The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department has added two new openings for representatives on the state’s All-Terrain Vehicle Advisory Committee. One position is slated for a representative from the side-by-side community and the other from the community of individuals with physical disabilities. For more information, including the application to become a representative, go to www.oregonohv.org.

            Luray, Va.: Virginia is now offering Shenandoah National Park dedicated motorcycle license plates. The plates can be ordered at Virginia DMV customer service centers, by mail, or online. Plates start at $25 and can be personalized. These are revenue sharing plates, meaning $15 of the $25 fee is transferred to Shenandoah National Park Trust for activities and programs in Virginia.

           Source and full story: http://www.snptrust.org/2011/10/biker-bliss/

November 2011

            Washington D.C.: Former two-term U.S. Sen. Wayne Allard of Colorado has joined the AMA as vice president for government relations. Allard, who represented Colorado during three terms in Congress and two terms in the U.S. Senate from 1991 to 2009, said he is looking forward to his new role.

            Born and raised in Colorado, Allard has a long history of serving the people of that state and of the nation, first as a member of the state Senate from 1983 to 1991, then as a congressman from 1991 to 1997 and finally as a U.S. senator from 1997 to 2009.

            While in the Senate, Allard was a co-sponsor of the James Peak Wilderness Bill that created a 14,000-acre Wilderness area around the 13,294-foot-high James Peak Mountain in Colorado. The legislation followed the federal definition of Wilderness established by Congress in 1964, addressed the concerns of a variety of stakeholders while at the same time preserving property, water and other rights, and ultimately protected land crucial to Colorado's watershed.

            Source and full story: www.americanmotorcyclist.com/news/11-09-21/Former_U_S_senator_joins_AMA_as_vice_president_for_government_relations.aspx

            Ontario, Calif.: Recently, leaders from many of the California OHV groups met with representatives from the U.S. Marine Corps (USMC) and other members of the Twentynine Palms base expansion committee. The purpose of the meeting was to engage in a dialog and get a status update regarding the Draft Environmental Impact Study (DEIS).

            According to a USMC spokesperson, the final base expansion EIS is scheduled for release in January 2012. A response to previously received public comments will be included in the Final EIS. Barring any significant challenges or related delays, the Final Record of Decision is expected by April 2012. From there, the EIS will be submitted to the U.S. Department of the Interior and then it must be submitted to, and approved by, Congress. No estimated time frame for those actions was provided.

            Sacramento, Calif.: Recently, the AMA testified before a U.S. House subcommittee about difficulties related to holding motorcycling events on U.S. Forest Service land.

            The AMA testified that restrictions and requirements for special events, as well as the increasing costs of obtaining special use permits, are creating hardships. The AMA also said that riders have felt left out of the processes for developing new travel management plans for public land, and are frustrated that established routes have been omitted from travel management route maps.

            The field hearing was convened by the Subcommittee on National Parks, Forests and Public Lands to investigate ongoing issues with the management of the nation’s national forests as well as to attempt to identify potential administrative or legislative remedies to address obstacles to the multiple use of public land.

            Besides the AMA, other panel members included representatives from the Forest Service, state and local officials and citizens. To view testimony and an archived webcast of the hearing, go to http://naturalresources.house.gov/Calendar/EventSingle.aspx?EventID=258843

            Sacramento, Calif.: California Highway Patrol (CHP) officials say they believe their two-year motorcycle safety campaign, which recently ended, has helped reduce injury and fatality rates. The federally funded campaign, "Look Twice, Save a Life," was designed to increase drivers' awareness of motorcyclists on the road.

            Preliminary 2010 CHP statistics show the number of people killed in motorcycle-involved collisions was down 9 percent from the previous year. The number of injuries was down 8.5 percent.

            The campaign focused on educating car and truck drivers about how difficult it is to see motorcyclists. The grant paid for message signs on state highways which read: "Share the road - Look twice for motorcyclists."

            Source and full story: www.chp.ca.gov/pdf/media/11-28.pdf

            Boston: In October, 15 insurance companies that had settled with the state attorney general for allegedly overcharging policy holders began refunding nearly $40 million in excessive motorcycle insurance premiums. The attorney general alleged that the companies had based premiums on inflated motorcycle values. Any riders who bought comprehensive and/or collision insurance on a motorcycle after January 2002 may be entitled to a refund. For more information see Motorcycle.ago.state.ma.us/motorcycle_insurance/process_request.action.

            Source and full story: www.wwlp.com/dpp/news/Insurance-refund-for-motorcycle-riders

            Lansing, Mich.: House Bill 4885, sponsored by Rep. Paul Opsommer (R-DeWitt), would prohibit the state, any agency of the state, or any political subdivision of the state from imposing a vehicle-miles-traveled tax, mileage-based user fee, global-positioning-satellite-based toll, or similar program that would allow the locational tracking of a private motor vehicle or its users. Also, the state and its political subdivision would also be prohibited from accepting any grants or fund to implement a pilot project for such a program.

            Bloomington, Minn.: The Cheaha Trail Riders in Talladega County, Ala., earned the “Club of the Year” award for 2011 by the National Off-Highway Vehicle Conservation Council (NOHVCC) at the national organization’s annual meeting in Minneapolis.  This AMA-chartered club was selected for their work on OHV safety and education, along with promoting the building of new OHV trail systems.

The club is a family-oriented group formed in 1988 that has members from Alabama, Georgia and Florida. The club quickly became a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, and hosts an annual Make-A-Wish charity event. This year's fundraiser will be held at TOP Trails in Talladega County on Saturday, Oct. 29.

            Source and full story: www.cheahatrailriders.com/club-minutes.html

            Bloomington, Minn.: AMA members Karen and Tom Umphress were presented with Motorcycle Industry Council Chairman’s Awards at the 2011 National Off-Highway Vehicle Conservation Council’s (NOHVCC) Annual Meeting in Minneapolis.

            Now in its sixth year, the NOHVCC award honors groups and individuals who have made special contributions of time and effort to preserve, protect and promote the powersports community.

            Source and full story: www.mic.org/news092611.cfm

            Lincoln, Neb.: The Abbott Motocross Facility, which hit multiple snags during its planning, development and construction, has officially opened to the public after a delay of more than a year.

            Officials from the Lower Platte South Natural Resources District, Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, Lancaster County and the Federal Highway Administration recently took part in a ribbon cutting at the track on October 8. The facility is a joint venture between the private Abbott Sports Complex and government entities.

            For more information visit www.abbottsports.com/motocross/motocross.php

            Columbus, Ohio: Motorcycle handlebars could be any height as long as the height doesn’t adversely affect the ability of the operator to operate the motorcycle safely under House Bill 316, introduced by Rep. Cliff Rosenberger (R-Clarksville). The current handlebar height restriction is no more than 15 inches above the seat or saddle of the operator.

            Pickerington, Ohio: Utilize AMA public service announcements (PSAs) featuring AMA Board member and actor Perry King. The print, video and audio PSAs are available free to the media and the public to distribute and promote. The PSAs address impaired riding, excessive motorcycle exhaust sound, the importance of the proper safety gear, and responsible and safe off- highway riding. They also deliver an important message to drivers to watch for motorcyclists on the road. To access the PSA messages, visit: www.americanmotorcyclist.com/Rights/Resources/PublicServiceAnnouncements.aspx.

            Pickerington, Ohio: The on- and off-highway motorcycle sound resources page has been revamped on the AMA website. This includes information about Sound Advice, a document that addresses the excessive motorcycle sound issue, a video explanation of how to sound test a motorcycle, model legislation and more.

            Since its inception in 1924, the AMA has maintained a position of strong opposition to excessive motorcycle sound. The AMA has funded information and public relations campaigns in support of quieter motorcycle use, and was the world’s first motorsports sanctioning body to regulate and reduce the sound level of racing vehicles.

            Source and full story: www.americanmotorcyclist.com/Rights/SoundAdvice.aspx

            Harrisburg, Pa.: Senate Bill 1232, sponsored by Sen. Timothy J. Solobay (D-Canonsburg), would modify the definition of a motorcycle by allowing the addition of two stabilizing wheels on the rear of the motor vehicle. Currently, a motorcycle is defined as a motor vehicle having a seat or saddle for use of the rider and designed to travel on not more than three wheels in contact with the ground.

           Rapid City, S. D.: There are now 10 miles of new motorcycle-only trails for advanced riders in the Black Hills National Forest, thanks to the efforts of volunteers and U.S. Forest Service workers. They just finished marking and posting signs at the trials.

            In addition, the forest Service now has a motorcycle trail dozer that was donated, in part, by Yamaha Motor Corp., U.S.A., that can be driven or operated remotely. Officials said the dozer will be used to open more single-track motorcycle trails and maintain existing trails.

            Motor vehicle use maps (MVUM) are available for the 1.2 million-acre Black Hills National Forest online or at any of the forest’s offices. The MVUM also displays allowed uses by vehicle class, seasonal restrictions, distance allowances, and provides information on other travel rules and regulations.

           Source and full story: http://blackhillsportal.com/npps/story.cfm?id=4361

            Tooele County, Utah: The federal Bureau of Land Management (BLM) has issued a Draft Environmental Assessment (EA) regarding the effects of a mining operation adjacent to the famed Bonneville Salt Flats time trial area. The AMA and other groups concerned about the quality of the salt flats racing surface are working together through the Save the Salt Coalition. Visit www.savethesalt.org for more information on the efforts to preserve this important area.

            Tacoma, Wash.: The state appellate court has affirmed the state’s decision to re-allocate $9.5 million of off-road vehicle gas tax funds in 2009 to state parks instead of the Nonhighway and Offroad Vehicle Activities (NOVA) account. The ruling was made in a lawsuit filed by the Washington Off-Highway Vehicle Alliance (WOHVA) against the state.

            The court said: “The decision to create a program as well as whether and to what extent to fund it is strictly a legislative prerogative.” Additionally, the court justified the reallocation of NOVA funds by explaining that since some of the NOVA fund spending benefits non-motorized recreationalists, the appropriation to state parks is an acceptable use of off-road vehicle gas tax money.

            The WOHVA and the Northwest Motorcycle Association plan to appeal the decision to the state’s supreme court.

            Visit www.wohva.org for more information on this important decision.

October 2011

            Washington, D.C.: In a victory for families who enjoy responsible motorized recreation, President Barack Obama has signed into law a bill to allow the sale of kids' off-highway vehicles (OHVs) to continue. H.R. 2715 cleared the House by a 421-2 vote on Aug. 1, just before lawmakers went into their summer recess, and earned Senate approval by unanimous consent the same day. The measure exempts kids' OHVs from the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA) of 2008, known as the lead law.
            The CPSIA, which went into effect on Feb. 10, 2009, banned the making, importing, distributing or selling of any product intended for children 12 and under, including kids' dirtbikes and all-terrain vehicles, that contained more than a specified amount of lead in any accessible part.

            The new law, introduced by Reps. Mary Bono Mack (R-Calif.) and G.K. Butterfield (D-N.C.),
is a significant victory that resulted from nearly three years of intensive efforts by the AMA and its partner organization, the All-Terrain Vehicle Association (ATVA). Other significant efforts included those by industry trade groups, the motorcycle enthusiast and trade media and millions of individual advocates of responsible OHV recreation nationwide.

            The AMA magnified these efforts through its "Kids Just Want to Ride" campaign, and the AMA Family Capitol Hill Climb in May 2011. To read more about what the AMA did in its efforts to exempt kids' OHVs from the CPSIA, visit www.americanmotorcyclist.com/Rights/KeepKidMotorcyclesAndATVsLegal.aspx.

            Dover, Del.: A new Delaware law establishes vehicular assault in the third degree as a crime and strengthens criminal penalties for vehicular assault in the second degree, vehicular homicide in the second degree, vehicular homicide in the first degree and criminally negligent homicide. The new law also gives sentencing courts wide latitude in crafting appropriate sentences for those who cause injury and death on Delaware roads. Gov. Jack Markell signed House Bill 174, sponsored by Rep. Helene Keeley (D-Wilmington South), on Aug. 3 to create the new law.

            Meanwhile, Markell on July 14 vetoed House Bill 95, sponsored by Rep. Michael Mulrooney (D-Pennwood), which would have eliminated the requirement that a person must have a safety helmet in their possession while operating, or riding on, a motorcycle. The governor’s veto message is available here.

            Springfield, Ill.: Gov. Pat Quinn wants motorcyclists and others stuck at red traffic signals to wait two minutes before going through the light. He made the proposal in an amendatory veto of House Bill 2860. The version of the bill that cleared the full legislature would have allowed motorcyclists to pass through the red light “after a reasonable period of time.” Lawmakers must now decide whether they agree with the proposal.

            Source and full story: www.sj-r.com/state/x1698393066/Quinn-changes-language-in-motorcycle-bill

            Farmington, N.M.: There is still time if you want to comment on the Resource Management Plan (RMP) Amendment and associated Environmental Assessment for the Glade Run Recreation Area. The Farmington Bureau of Land Management (BLM) has moved the comment deadline in its scoping process to Sept. 30. The agency is using the scoping process to try to get a handle on what issues to explore and what alternatives to develop for consider. Officials want to know what users would like to see in the area and why. Meetings and locations will be announced in local media and on the BLM Farmington Field Office website.

            Source and full story: www.nmohva.org/main/index.php

            Pickerington, Ohio: The on- and off-highway motorcycle sound resources page has been revamped on the AMA’s website. This includes information about Sound Advice, a document that addresses the excessive motorcycle sound issue, a video explanation of how to sound test a motorcycle, model legislation and more.

            Since its inception in 1924, the AMA has maintained a position of strong opposition to excessive motorcycle sound. The AMA has funded information and public relations campaigns in support of quieter motorcycle use, and was the world’s first motorsports sanctioning body to regulate and reduce the sound level of racing vehicles.

            Source and full story: www.americanmotorcyclist.com/Rights/SoundAdvice.aspx 

            Bend, Ore.: The Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests and the Crooked River National Grassland are making changes to motor vehicle use rules on local Forest Service managed lands. Cross-country travel won’t be allowed except in designated areas. Also, camp sites must be within 300 feet of a road to use a motorized vehicle to get to them, and vehicles can’t park closer than 30 feet to any wetland, stream or water body at dispersed campsites. The new rules are expected to be in place in early November. Be sure to get Motor Vehicle Use maps that show where motorized vehicles are allowed from the forest and grasslands officials.

            Source and full story: www.ktvz.com/news/29020157/detail.html

            Salt Lake City, Utah: Davis County officials may take over management of the Jordan River Off-Highway Vehicle Park from the Utah Division of State Park. About half the park has already been transferred to Salt Lake County to be developed as part of a soccer complex. Some 150 acres of park land is being used by motorcyclists, but its unknown whether that will continue. The riding area includes four separate tracks and is open from early April to mid-October.

            Source and full story: www.standard.net/stories/2011/08/22/davis-county-looks-managing-jordan-river-ohv-park

            Morgantown, W.Va.: Student motorcyclists at West Virginia University have earned a victory following their protest of the high cost of new motorcycle parking permits. The university imposed a $162 fee but reduced it to $100 following the protest. Students had also complained that the permits only allowed parking at either the Evansdale or downtown school campus. Thanks to the students’ efforts, the permits now are good for parking at either campus.

            Source and full story: www.dailymail.com/ap/ApTopStories/201108310577

            Fond du Lac, Wis.: The Wisconsin Off-Highway Vehicle Association (WOHVA) has a new memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, which formalizes their cooperative efforts. In a news release, the association said that the MOU will allow it to continue working with the U.S. Forest Service to “provide quality riding experiences for WOHVA members and other parties searching for safe, resource friendly areas to drive 4x4 vehicles and off-highway motorcycles in the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest.”

            Source and full story: www.wohva.com

            Vancouver, British Columbia: Motorcycle and scooter riders in Vancouver want free parking like electric-vehicle riders receive. Currently, electric scooters park for free, but riders of gas-powered motorcycles and scooters must pay.The city hopes to create 200 scooter and motorcycle parking spots by the end of the year, with the majority of them already created.  

            Source and full story: www.vancourier.com/Motorcycle+lobby+pushes+free+parking/5331988/story.html

September 2011

             Washington, D.C.: Bill to exempt kids' off-highway vehicles from lead law sent to the president. The U.S. Senate has approved a House bill to exempt kids' off-highway vehicles (OHVs) from the lead law that essentially bans the sale of those machines at the end of the year. The bill, H.R. 2715 introduced by Reps. Mary Bono Mack (R-Calif.) and G.K. Butterfield (D-N.C.), cleared the full House by a 421-2 vote on Aug. 1, and then earned approval in the Senate the same day. The bill now goes to President Obama to be signed into law. 
            The legislation exempts OHVs -- including kids' dirtbikes and all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) -- from the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA) of 2008. 
            The CPSIA bans the making, importing, distributing or selling of any product intended for children 12 and under that contains more than a specified amount of lead in any accessible part. It also requires all children's products undergo periodic testing by independent laboratories approved by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), which is responsible for implementing the law. The CPSIA was designed to ban small toys with high lead content. However, because of broadly written language in the law, it has been interpreted to apply to all products for children 12 and under, including dirtbikes, ATVs, bicycles, clothing and books. 
            The AMA has been at the forefront of the fight to exclude child-sized motorcycles and ATVs from the CPSIA. The association has participated in news events to focus media attention on the issue, lobbied on Capitol Hill, and organized campaigns to encourage riders and parents to contact their federal lawmakers and key decision-makers to exempt kids' OHVs from the CPSIA. 
            To read more of what the AMA has done to exempt kids' OHVs from the CPSIA, visit: http://www.americanmotorcyclist.com/Rights/KeepKidMotorcyclesAndATVsLegal.aspx.

            Washington, D.C.: On July 27, the Subcommittee on Consumer Protection, Product Safety, and Insurance of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science & Transportation, chaired by Senator Mark Pryor (D-AR), held a hearing on reauthorizing the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. 

             At the hearing, Administrator David Strickland testified before the subcommittee, stating that “the most important step we can take to reduce the deaths of motorcyclists on our roads and highways is to assure that all riders wear a DOT compliant helmet.” He added, “A grant program emphasizing the use of motorcycle helmets would be effective in reducing fatalities.” Strickland also stated that “NHTSA estimates that the use of motorcycle helmets by motorcyclists reduces the likelihood of a motorcycle crash fatality by 37 percent for operators and 41 percent for passengers.” 

            For more information and to view the testimony and an archive webcast of the hearing, go to http://www.americanmotorcyclist.com/News/RightsNews/11-07-27/Archive_Webcast_Senate_hearing_to_reauthorize_NHTSA.aspx.

            Phoenix, Ariz.: The OHV Ambassador Program is seeking to train volunteers who wish to enhance OHV riding opportunities by working cooperatively with land managers. Becoming an Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) Ambassador provides a means for private citizens to work with federal, state, and local land managers and public safety officials to promote responsible OHV recreation on public and private lands.

            Volunteers contribute their time, experience, and local knowledge of OHV areas in Arizona by monitoring public lands in groups of two or more on motorcycles, all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), utility vehicles (UTVs), or 4x4 vehicles. OHV Ambassadors also participate in special projects to enhance OHV areas throughout Arizona.

            Anyone who has off-highway vehicle experience and is able to provide their own OHV that is licensed/street legal can volunteer as an OHV Ambassador, provided they agree to abide by the OHV Ambassador Code of Conduct.

            Source and full story: http://azstateparks.com/ohv/ambassadors.html

            San Benito, Calif.: The California Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Recreation (OHMVR) Commission has officially urged the federal government to reopen Clear Creek Management Area (CCMA) while including recommendations for strategies to minimize health risks.
            The commission recently sent a letter, which urged reopening of the 63,000-acre CCMA in southern San Benito County. In the summer of 2008 the U.S. Bureau of Land Management (BLM) closed the CCMA, which was largely used by OHV enthusiasts, contending that asbestos levels there are dangerous. The BLM cited an Environmental Protection Agency study in issuing the emergency closure order and is going through the process of potentially permanently closing it to the general public. 
          This debate has underscored differing perspectives from varying levels of government. County officials have long urged the BLM to reopen the CCMA. Now the OHMVR commission, part of the California Department of Parks and Recreation, has indicated the state has a concern about the long-term fate of the CCMA.

            Source and full story: http://hollisterfreelance.com/news/277554-state-commission-urges-feds-to-reopen-clear-creek

            Longmont, Colo.: More than a month after the Maxwell Firewas contained, Forest Service officials have reopened the Lefthand Off-Highway Vehicle area to recreational use. The area was closed for safety reasons after the fire burned approximately 60 acres.

            The wildfire left hot spots and unstable soils prone to erosion and falling rocks. Workers from the Boulder Ranger District of the Roosevelt National Forest monitored the burn area, assessed the stability of the soils and did mitigation work to reduce the risks. Rolling rocks and falling debris continue to be a threat in the area, and high winds or heavy rain may increase that risk. Visitors are asked to be aware of weather conditions and personal safety.

            Source and full story: http://www.coloradodaily.com/ci_18593319?source=most_viewed#axzz1TzQsok5T

            Colorado: The Colorado Divisions of Parks and Wildlife will hold several meetings through the end of the year that could shape access for off-highway recreation and sporting in the state. All off-highway recreationists are encouraged to attend a meeting and present the perspective of responsible motorized recreation. Details on the meetings can be found on the Colorado Division of Wildlife Commission page.

            Boston, Mass.: Under the Land & Water Conservation Fund Act (LWCF), states work closely with the National Park Service to analyze recreation needs, set priorities for funding, and supervise and coordinate the selection of projects. In order to remain eligible for funding from the Land & Water Conservation Fund grant program, the National Parks Service requires every state to complete a Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP) every five years. The SCORP is the state's Open Space and Recreation Plan, and provides regional data for the state.            

            To help inform the SCORP process and guide future use of LWCF funds, the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs is conducting a survey to gather data about Commonwealth residents’ preferences for recreational activities. To participate in the survey, visit https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/BL79V26 

            Red River, N. M.: The town of Red River and The New Mexico Off Highway Vehicle Alliance (NMOHVA) have co-signed and submitted Travel Management Comments to the Carson National Forest. These comments are the formal response to the Carson's proposed action that would eliminate motorized use on some of the roads and trails currently used in the Questa Ranger District. Under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), the Carson National Forest must provide a detailed scientific analysis showing the current conditions in the forest and justify closures. The comments show the Carson has failed to comply with NEPA.

            Source and full story: http://www.nmohva.org/main/issues.php?id=65&archive=0

            Columbus, Ohio: Be sure to utilize AMA public service announcements (PSA) featuring AMA Board of Directors member and actor Perry King. The print, video and audio PSAs are available free to the media and the public to distribute and promote. The PSAs address impaired riding, excessive motorcycle exhaust sound, the importance of the proper safety gear, responsible and safe off- highway riding, and deliver an important message to drivers to watch out for motorcyclists on the road. To access the PSA messages, visit: www.americanmotorcyclist.com/Rights/Resources/PublicServiceAnnouncements.aspx   

            Also, recently updated on the AMA’s website, the on and off-highway motorcycle sound resources page. This includes information about Sound Advice, a document that addresses the excessive motorcycle sound issue, as well as links to additional information and model legislation. Efforts by regulators around the nation to rein in excessive motorcycle sound often miss the mark by singling out motorcyclists with laws that are unfair, impractical and unenforceable.

               Since its inception in 1924, the AMA has maintained a position of strong opposition to excessive motorcycle sound. The AMA has funded information and public relations campaigns in support of quieter motorcycle use, and was the world’s first motorsports sanctioning body to regulate and reduce the sound level of racing vehicles.

            Source and full story: http://www.americanmotorcyclist.com/Rights/SoundAdvice.aspx

            Harrisburg, Pa.: House Bill 563, sponsored by Rep. Richard A. Geist (R-Altoona), would provide property owners protection from civil liable for any injury or death to persons or damage to property that may occur during an approved motorcycle safety education program course of instruction or training. The Pennsylvania Motorcycle Safety Program (http://www.pamsp.com) would benefit from additional training sites around the state.

            Olympia, Wash.:  The Recreation and Conservation Office (RCO) is seeking five volunteers to evaluate grant applications for backcountry trail projects in Washington. Volunteers will serve on the Nonhighway and Off-road Vehicle Activities (NOVA) program advisory committee, and should represent at least one of the following points of view: back-road recreationists, fishers and hunters, 4x4 vehicle riders, mountain bicyclists or pedestrians (including hikers, backpackers, cross-country skiers and snowshoers).

            The NOVA program provides grants to local, state and federal agencies, and tribal governments to help plan, acquire, develop, and maintain facilities for motorized and nonmotorized recreation.

Appointed members will serve from January 2012 through December 2015 and advise RCO on trail issues, including grant funding and policies. Generally, members attend four to five weekday meetings in even numbered years to evaluate grant applications and prepare funding recommendations.

            Source and full story: http://www.rco.wa.gov/grants/vol_eval_cmte.shtml

            Bath, England: Motorcycle helmets protect riders but they may also contribute to hearing loss, say researchers at the University of Bath and Bath Spa University in England. The study, Aeroacoustic Sources of Motorcycle Helmet Noise, revealed the biggest source of noise for helmeted motorcyclists is generated by airflow over the riders' helmets. Even at legal speeds, the sound can exceed safe levels, more than enough to cause serious hearing damage. The study has been accepted for publication in Journal of the Acoustical Society of America.

            Source: http://www.upi.com/Health_News/2011/07/29/Motorcycle-helmets-may-be-hard-on-hearing/UPI-40831311994179/

August 2011

          Washington, D.C.: Testifiers told a key U.S. House subcommitteeon June 22 that off-highway vehicle (OHV) recreation puts billions of dollars into the U.S. economy, and public land needs to be opened up for motorized recreation. Supporters of H.R. 1581, the Wilderness and Roadless Area Release Act of 2011, testified that the bill would free up almost 43 million acres of public land that now may be off-limits to off-highway riding. 
            The testimony came during a House Subcommittee on National Parks, Forests and Public Lands oversight hearing on "Opportunities for Outdoor Recreation on Public Lands,” chaired by Rep. Rob Bishop (R-Utah). 
            The Wilderness and Roadless Area Release Act of 2011 would remove stringent use restrictions on 6.7 million acres managed by the Bureau of Land Management and on 36.1 million acres of U.S. Forest Service land that was evaluated for strict congressional Wilderness land-use designations. 
            The federal agencies have determined the 43 million acres aren't suitable for Wilderness designation, but because of various laws and rules they must continue to strictly manage the land until Congress "releases" it for other possible uses, which H.R. 1581 would do.
            Source and full story: http://www.americanmotorcyclist.com/NewsView/11-06-23/Congress_told_that_off-highway_riding_is_an_economic_engine.aspx

            Washington, D.C.: A bill that would exempt kids' off-highway vehicles (OHVs) from a law that effectively bans their sale at the end of the year is gaining more support in Congress. Seventy-five U.S. House members now support the bill -- H.R. 412, the Kids Just Want to Ride Act, introduced by Rep. Denny Rehberg (R-Mont.) -- that would exempt kids' OHVs from the lead-content portion of the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA) of 2008.
            H.R. 412, the Kids Just Want to Ride Act, is aimed squarely at the CPSIA, which is commonly known as the lead law. The CPSIA bans the making, importing, distributing or selling of any product intended for children 12 and under that contains more than a specified amount of lead in any accessible part.
            The latest flood of support for the Kids Just Want to Ride Act follows a day of lobbying by kids and their parents who descended on Washington, D.C., in late May as part of the AMA Family Capitol Hill Climb lobbying effort. The children, dressed in motocross gear, and their parents shared their stories about enjoying responsible motorized recreation, and the need to change the CPSIA, in discussions with lawmakers and congressional staff members.
            Source and full story: http://www.americanmotorcyclist.com/NewsView/11-06-30/75_federal_lawmakers_now_support_Kids_Just_Want_to_Ride_Act.aspx

            Washington, D.C.: A bill introduced to prohibit EPA from authorizing use of gasoline containing greater than 10 percent ethanol was introduced by Rep. Jim Sensenbrenner (R-WI). H.R. 748 would prohibit the administrator of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) from authorizing the use of gasoline containing greater than 10 percent ethanol in certain vehicles. In addition to Rep. Sensenbrenner, Reps. Tom Petri (R-WI), Tom McClintock (R-CA), Jeff Flake (R-AZ), Dennis Ross (R-FL) and Wally Herger (R-CA) are original cosponsors.

            The AMA is concerned about E15 because it combusts at a higher temperature than gasoline that contains a lesser amount of ethanol. In engines not designed to dissipate this additional heat, engine damage in the form of premature wear can result. This is a concern for all motorcycle and ATV owners, particularly those with air-cooled engines found in many machines. Moreover, use of E15 can void the manufacturer’s warranty.

            Since the approved list includes many light-duty vehicles in use today, refineries, distributors, and fueling stations may choose to offer primarily E15 gasoline because of this action by the EPA. All on- and off-highway enthusiasts should take note because this may affect the availability of gasoline with less or no ethanol (E10 or E0).

            Be sure to read the August issue of American Motorcyclist magazine, which includes a column entitled "Alcohol and Motorcycles Don't Mix" for more information on this issue.

            Source and full story: http://capwiz.com/amacycle/issues/alert/?alertid=51059636&queueid=%5bcapwiz:queue_id

            Springfield, Ill.: Passed in both the House and the Senate, House Bill 2860, sponsored by Rep. Dan Beiser (D-Alton), would permit motorcycle operators, facing a steady red signal that fails to change to green within a reasonable period of time because of a signal malfunction or because the signal fails to detect the presence of the motorcycle, to proceed subject to the rules applicable after making a stop at a stop sign. The bill was forwarded on June 27 to Governor Pat Quinn; he has until August 29 to make his decision.

            Belle Chasse, La: Five years ago the Marine Corps noticed an alarming increase rate of motorcycle-related accidents, according to Jeffery J. Peters, MarForRes director of safety and center supervisor. So, after years of planning and building, Marine Forces Reserve opened the $1 million MarForRes Center for Safety Excellence on June 2, 2011. The center is the product of a joint Marine Corps and Navy effort train Marines, however it is available to all service members.

            The facility is equipped with state-of-the-art virtual simulators that allow students to experience riding on any surface, in any climate and in any traffic scenario without the actual dangers prior to getting on real bikes. There is also a multi-vehicle simulator that can be used for anyone who would like to try something different, or get a feel for a vehicle they may or may not ever drive. However, these simulators are not the primary focus of the center right now or nearly as advanced as the motorcycle trainers used for the riding courses.

            Marines are also able to take courses and acquire certification as safety officers, a secondary military occupational specialty. They can also get temporary additional duty orders to travel here from any point in the United States to take the course, which is open to all service members or family members who own a motorcycle or recreational vehicle. For more information or to sign up contact the MarForRes Safety Office at (504) 678-5069.

            Source and full story: http://www.military.com/news/article/marine-corps-news/mfr-opens-1-million-safety-center.html

            New York, N.Y.: After a year and a half of effort, it was recently announced by the New York Motorcycle & Scooter Task Force that the Port Authority of New York & New Jersey has finally created designated motorcycle parking at LaGuardia Airport (LGA). Over a dozen spots are available at no charge. They are located at the Marine Air Terminal, so travel by the free shuttle bus is required once parked.

            Enter the airport at the Marine Air Terminal, and look for parking outside Lot 7, on the Fiorello Lane side. Since regular lot gates can't accept motorcycles, this is the only place where motorcyclists can park at the airport.

            Source and full story: http://nymstf.org/

            Raleigh, N.C.: In response to controversial motorcycle-only checkpoints, Rep John A. Torbett (R-Stanley) sponsored House Bill 381. The bill passed unanimously in the House and Senate, and was signed into law by Governor Beverly Perdue on June 23. Effective December 1, 2011, law enforcement agencies will be prohibited from establishing patterns for vehicle stops at checking stations based on a particular type of vehicle.

            Also signed into law by Governor Perdue is House Bill 113, sponsored by Rep. Ric Killian (R-Raleigh). HB-113 establishes a penalty of not less than $200 for any vehicle operator who causes a motorcycle operator to change or leave the travel lanes of any public street or highway, in violation of the requirement that all operators must not start, stop, or turn their vehicles unless it is safe to do so. The penalty jumps to not less than $500.00 if the violation results in a crash causing property damage or personal injury to the motorcycle operator or passenger. The new law takes effect December 1, 2011.

            Columbia, S.C.: Gov. Nikki Haley (R) has signed into law new safety legislation aimed at young ATV riders. The new law prohibits parents or legal guardians from knowingly permitting a child under the age of 6 to operate an ATV and requires riders under the age of 16 to take a “hands-on” rider safety course. Riders 15 years of age or younger are required to wear a helmet and eye protection.

            Austin, Texas: House Bill 2470, which would have defined “sport bikes” as a separate class of motorcycles and placed special restrictions on the operators of “sport bikes”, died in a senate committee. The bill, which had passed the House of Representatives, included an arbitrary definition and would have established a dangerous precedent of regulating motorcycles and motorcyclists differently based on this ill-conceived definition.

            Richmond, Va.: AMA seeks end to Virginia motorcycle-only checkpoints. The AMA has expressed concern to Gov. Bob McDonnell over a recent motorcycle-only checkpoint in northern Virginia, calling the move "discriminatory."

            The Arlington County (Va.) Police Department conducted a motorcycle-only checkpoint on May 28 during the annual Rolling Thunder gathering in Washington, D.C. The Rolling Thunder event, held May 27-29, involved tens of thousands of motorcyclists riding to the nation's capital to seek accountability for prisoners of war and service personnel missing in action.
            In a letter dated May 31, the AMA told Governor McDonnell that motorcycle-only checkpoints are discriminatory and profile only motorcyclists.
            Copies of the letter were also sent to Arlington County Police Chief M. Douglas Scott, Virginia House of Delegates Transportation Committee Chairman Joe May and Virginia Senate Transportation Committee Chairwoman Yvonne Miller.
            Source and full story: www.americanmotorcyclist.com/NewsView/11-05-31/AMA_seeks_end_to_Virginia_motorcycle-only_checkpoints.aspx

           Also House Bill 1981, sponsored by Del. Thomas A Greason (R-Potomac Falls) was signed into law March 24 by Governor Bob McDonnell. The bill permits a motorcycle or moped operator or a bicycle rider to proceed through a steady red light at an intersection controlled by a traffic-actuated signal under certain circumstances. The operator or rider must come to a complete stop and wait for two complete cycles of the traffic light before proceeding with due care and after determining it is safe to do so. The new law became effective July 1.

            Milwaukee, Wis.: Wisconsin motorists have a new opportunity to support motorcycle safety initiatives throughout the state. Harley-Davidson Motor Company recently announced it is partnering with the state Department of Transportation to offer the first-ever Harley-Davidson branded automotive license plate to motorists in Wisconsin. This plate will be available for automobiles, light trucks and motor homes.

            Source and full story: http://www.americanmotorcyclist.com/NewsView/11-04-14/Harley-Davidson_branded_license_plates_will_help_fund_safety_initiatives.aspx

            Brussels, Belgium: Member countries of the European Union (EU) are grappling with the adoption and implementation of a harmonized motorcycle driver’s license standard. A statement from the ACEM (the motorcycle industry association in Europe) expressed concern that the lack of coordination could limit riders' mobility in the EU and negatively impact the market, and called on the European Commission to carefully monitor the transition process.

            Source and full story: http://www.acem.eu/cms/det_pressreleases.php?det=145

July 2011

            Washington, D.C.: U.S. Interior Secretary Ken Salazar has reversed his position on his controversial new Wild Lands policy. In an announcement made on June 1, Salazar said the federal Bureau of Land Management (BLM) would not designate any Wild Lands, which would have been managed as if they had received the restrictive Wilderness designation from Congress.
            Instead, Salazar said the BLM, which is a part of the Interior Department, would work in collaboration with members of Congress and others to identify public land that may be appropriate candidates for congressional protection under the Wilderness Act.
            Because of opposition from powerful federal lawmakers, governors, the AMA and its members and other OHV enthusiasts, the Wild Lands policy hit a major snag on April 15.
            That's when President Obama signed into law the Fiscal Year 2011 Continuing Resolution that included language barring the Interior Department from using any money to implement the Wild Lands land-use policy to manage land as if it had been designated as Wilderness.
            A Wilderness designation is one of the strictest forms of public land management. Once Congress designates an area as Wilderness, nearly all forms of non-pedestrian recreation are illegal. The AMA supports appropriate Wilderness designations that meet the criteria established by Congress in 1964, but anti-access advocates have been abusing the legislative process to ban responsible OHV recreation on public land.

            Source and full story: www.americanmotorcyclist.com/NewsView/11-06-01/U_S_Interior_Department_reverses_Wild_Lands_policy.aspx

            Washington, D.C.: Hundreds of young motorcyclists, their parents and concerned riders from 20 states met with several U.S. representatives, including Rep. Denny Rehberg (R-Mont.), author of the Kids Just Want to Ride Act, in Washington, D.C. on May 26, at the American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) Family Capitol Hill Climb. The event was a strong demonstration of public opposition to a ban on the sale of youth-model motorcycles and all-terrain vehicles (ATVs).

            Families from as far away as Washington State, Arizona and Colorado delivered their message at a gathering in the Rayburn House Office Building. The parents and children then met with their individual lawmakers to personally urge support for H.R. 412, the Kids Just Want To Ride Act.

            Among the kids and parents attending were Erin, 11, Adi, 7, and Carter, 5, Malcolm of Littleton, Colo., who, along with their parents, Danny and Peggy, won a trip to Washington, D.C., in the AMA's "Kids Just Want To Ride" video contest.

            To date, more than 70 members of Congress have signed on to co-sponsor H.R. 412, the Kids Just Want to Ride Act, but its passage is by no means assured. The AMA urges riders to ask their Representative to cosponsor this bill.

            Source and full story: www.americanmotorcyclist.com/NewsView/11-05-26/AMA_Family_Capitol_Hill_Climb_rally_urges_lawmakers_to_support_kids_off-highway_riding.aspx

            Washington, D.C.: Lawmakers back ban on motorcycle-only checkpoints, and support crash prevention efforts. Federal lawmakers have sent a bipartisan letter to the leadership of a key U.S. House committee to urge support for a bill that prohibits federal funding for motorcycle-only traffic checkpoints. The lawmakers are also urging support for a measure to retain a ban on lobbying at the state level by a federal traffic safety agency.

Rep. Jim Sensenbrenner (R-Wis.) and his colleagues sent a letter on May 25 to the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure as well as to the panel's Subcommittee on Highways and Transit. The letter asks the panels to include H.R. 904 and H. Res. 239 in the surface transportation reauthorization bill now being considered by Congress.

            H.R. 904 would prohibit the U.S. Transportation Secretary from providing grants or any funds to a state or local government to be used for programs to check helmet usage or to create motorcycle-only checkpoints.

            H.Res. 239 would support efforts to retain a ban on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's (NHTSA's) ability to lobby state legislators using federal tax dollars and urges the agency to focus on motorcycle crash prevention and rider education and training.

            Source and full story: www.americanmotorcyclist.com/NewsView/11-05-26/Lawmakers_back_ban_on_motorcycle-only_checkpoints_support_crash_prevention_efforts.aspx

             Montgomery, Ala.: House Bill 528, sponsored by Rep. Ken Johnson (R-Moulton), would permit the operator of a motorcycle, moped, and bicycle to proceed with caution through an intersection controlled by a traffic control signal after stopping for 60 seconds, treating the traffic control signal as a stop sign.

            Ajo, Ariz.: Motorcycles and ATV’s granted equal access to Arizona wildlife refuge. The Cabeza Prieta National Wildlife Refuge in Arizona has reversed an unwritten policy and will begin allowing street-legal motorcycles and all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) on certain roads.
            The AMA, in partnership with the BlueRibbon Coalition, contacted officials at the refuge, which is managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service after being alerted to the policy by a member who was denied access.
            After investigating, refuge officials agreed that the policy was incorrect and announced on May 18 that street-legal motorcycles and ATVs will now be allowed on three public access roads: the El Camino del Diablo, Christmas Pass and Charlie Bell roads, which are outside designated Wilderness areas.

            No other roads or trails in the Cabeza Prieta National Wildlife Refuge are open to motorized use. Street-legal motorcycles and ATVs will be required to run a mast displaying an orange flag at least 8 feet above the ground.
           Riders are urged to send a thank you note to the Refuge’s manager Sid Slone.

           Source and full story: http://www.americanmotorcyclist.com/NewsView/11-05-23/Motorcycles_granted_equal_access_to_Arizona_wildlife_refuge.aspx

            Sacramento, Calif.: Off-highway vehicle organizations are applauding a recent legal ruling involving the Eldorado National Forest. The ruling is the latest in a series of lawsuits spanning several decades.
            Senior U.S. District Judge Lawrence K. Karlton issued a ruling on May 26 that largely upholds the Eldorado Forest’s travel management decision, but finds the Forest Service violated the Endangered Species Act and certain Forest Plan standards in authorizing access through a handful of meadows and failing to more thoroughly consider ephemeral streams. Each of these issues focused on alleged impacts to California red-legged frog habitat and involved a handful of routes within the roughly 1,200-mile road/trail network approved by the agency.
            Groups that were defendant intervenors in this case include the California Association of 4- Wheel Drive Clubs, California Enduro Riders Association, District 36 of the American Motorcyclist Association and the BlueRibbon Coalition.
            Source and full story: http://sharetrails.org/releases/?story=736&filter=media

            Northbrook, Ill., Twenty-five cities are getting new traffic signs designed to bring awareness to motorcyclists on the road, thanks to Allstate. The national insurer will place cautionary signs at intersections in 25 major metropolitan areas to prompt drivers to look out for riders at intersections. According to Allstate, an average of three motorcyclists are killed every day at intersections in the U. S., and crash data reveal that motorcycle crashes happen more often in intersections than elsewhere, relative to the amount of time riders spend in them.

            The caution signs, which are yellow and diamond-shaped, feature a motorcycle silhouette and are inscribed with the word "LOOK" to encourage motorists to look for motorcycles before crossing an intersection. The signs, part of Allstate's "Once is Never Enough" program, are designed to increase awareness of motorcycle collisions with motorists in intersections and to help remind drivers and riders alike that looking once at intersections is never enough.

            Source and full story: www.americanmotorcyclist.com/NewsView/11-05-26/Allstate_wants_drives_to_LOOK_for_motorcyclists_on_the_road.aspx

            Baton Rouge, La.: House Bill 583, sponsored by Rep. Tom Willmott (R-Kenner), would prohibit the installation of any head lamp, auxiliary or fog lamp, rear lamp, signal lamp, or reflector on a motor vehicle or operation of a motor vehicle equipped with any type of lamp or reflector that changes the original design or performance unless it is in compliance with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) No. 108.

            Augusta, Maine: Maine has adopted a simple yet reliable testing procedure that allows motorcyclists to prove their bikes don't violate the state’s motor vehicle sound law.
               Under a new law that went into effect on May 26, motorcyclists ticketed for excessive sound emitting from their motorcycle exhausts can go to a certified inspection station for sound testing.
               There, the exhaust system would be tested using the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) J2825 stationary sound testing procedure -- "Measurement of Exhaust Sound Pressure Levels of Stationary On-Highway Motorcycles" -- which the SAE developed and adopted with support from the Motorcycle Industry Council in May 2009.
               Under the SAE J2825 standard, which the AMA has endorsed, decibel limits range from 92 dBA at idle for all motorcycles, to 100 dBA at certain RPMs for various motorcycles, depending on the type of engine. If a motorcycle meets these limits during the certified testing, then it is evidence that the motorcycle doesn't violate the state's sound law.

               The AMA has long maintained a position of strong opposition to excessive motorcycle sound. The SAE J2825 standard is at the heart of model legislation developed by the AMA for use by jurisdictions seeking a simple, consistent and economical way to deal with sound complaints related to on-highway motorcycles within the larger context of excessive sound from all sources.
               Source and full story: http://www.americanmotorcyclist.com/NewsView/11-06-13/Maine_adopts_practical_test_for_measuring_motorcycle_sound.aspx

            Annapolis, Md.: House Bill 1282, sponsored by Del. Cheryl Glenn (D-45), requires vehicle-parking facilities that are owned, leased, or operated by the State or a political subdivision of the State, or that receive funding from the State or a political subdivision of the State, to allow motorcycles to park in the facilities, subject to certain charges. Governor Martin O’Malley signed the bill, which takes effect July 1, into law on May 10.

            Lansing, Mich.: House Bill 4608, sponsored by Rep. Peter Pettalia (R-Presque Isle Township) and Senate Bill 291, sponsored by Sen. Phillip J. Pavlov (R-St. Clair), would permit a person 21 years of age or older operating or riding on a motorcycle to make his or her own decision regarding helmet use if he or she has had a motorcycle endorsement for two or more years or has successfully completed a motorcycle safety course.

            Concord, N. H.: House Bill 148, sponsored by Rep. Frank Holden (R-Lyndeborough) and Rep. Sherman Packard (R-Londonderry), and signed into law by Governor John Lynch on May 20, prohibits law enforcement agencies of the state or a political subdivision of the state from accepting federal funding to establish motorcycle-only roadside checkpoints. The law takes effect July 15.

            Albany, N.Y.: Assembly Bill 7247, sponsored by Asm. Nancy Calhoun (R-Washingtonville), would permit a motorcycle operator to proceed with due caution through a steady red signal at an intersection after waiting no less than sixty seconds if the traffic control device is inoperative and fails to recognize the motorcycle.

June 2011

            Washington, D.C.: The AMA congratulates the winning “Kids Just Want to Ride!” videos and thanks all who participated in the contest. The video contest was designed to empower those most impacted by the law – kids and their families -- by helping them tell Congress just how important motorcycling is to them. Each video featured one or more kids promising not to "eat my motorcycle!" To view the winning videos, click here. 
           Source and full story: http://capwiz.com/amacycle/issues/alert/?alertid=44615531

            Washington, D.C.: The AMA invites all youth riders and their families to attend the AMA Family Capitol Hill Climb on Thursday, May 26, in Washington, D.C. The day will begin with a welcome briefing followed by a press event and conclude with attendees meeting their Member of Congress to urge support for the “Kids Just Want to Ride Act” - legislation that, if approved by Congress, would exempt youth-model motorcycles and all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) from the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA) 0f 2008. Unless the CPSIA is repealed or modified, it will effectively ban the sale of kids’ vehicles at the end of 2011.

            If you plan to attend the AMA Family Capitol Hill Climb, please complete the registration form and return it by Thursday, May 12. For event details, trip planning assistance, and help arranging a meeting with your Member of Congress contact the AMA’s Grassroots Team by phone (202) 742-4310 or e-mail grassroots@ama-cycle.org.

           Source and full story: www.americanmotorcyclist.com/KidsJustWantToRide.aspx

            Washington, D.C.: U.S. lawmakers want a federal traffic safety agency to concentrate on motorcycle crash prevention and rider education -- instead of trying to lobby state lawmakers to enact mandatory helmet laws. U.S. Rep. Jim Sensenbrenner (R-Wis.) and his colleagues introduced House Resolution 239 on May 2 to retain the ban on state and local lobbying by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

            The bi-partisan resolution instead urges the agency to focus on motorcycle crash prevention as the first step in motorcycle safety. The date of the bill's introduction is significant because May is traditionally recognized as Motorcycle Awareness Month.

If approved, the resolution sends a clear message to the federal agency that it shouldn't lobby state or local jurisdictions for mandatory helmet laws. The anti-lobbying language was originally written into the Transportation Equity Act approved by Congress in 1998.

           Source and full story: http://www.americanmotorcyclist.com/NewsView/11-05-03/Federal_lawmakers_oppose_state_lobbying_by_safety_agency.aspx

            Washington, D.C.: Bipartisan effort to preserve self-funded trails under way in Congress. Federal lawmakers are building support for continuing the law that earmarks a small but significant portion of gas-tax revenue that is paid by the users of off-highway vehicles (OHVs) for the creation of motorized and non-motorized trails.

            Reps. Tom Petri (R-Wis.) and Michael Michaud (D-Maine) are circulating a letter to their congressional colleagues, currently signed by 74 Members of Congress from both parties, to the leadership of the U.S. House of Representatives Transportation and Infrastructure Committee in support of the Recreational Trails Program (RTP), asking them to support the Recreational Trails Program (RTP), which provides funds to the states to develop and maintain recreational trails and trail-related facilities for both non-motorized and motorized recreational trail uses.
            The RTP funds come from the federal Highway Trust Fund and represent a portion of the federal motor fuel excise tax collected from non-highway recreational fuel use. In other words, taxes generated by fuel used for OHV recreation, fund the RTP for both motorized and non-motorized use alike.

           Source and Full story: http://www.americanmotorcyclist.com/NewsView/11-04-22/Bipartisan_effort_to_preserve_self-funded_trails_under_way_in_Congress.aspx

            Washington, D.C.: Motorcyclist fatalities declined by at least 2 percent last year, according to a report released on Apr. 19 by the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA). Based upon preliminary data, GHSA projects that motorcycle fatalities declined from 4,465 in 2009 to 4,376 or less in 2010. The projection is based upon data from 50 states and the District of Columbia. The decline comes on the heels of a dramatic 16 percent drop in 2009, which followed 11 straight years of steady increases in motorcycle deaths.

           Source and full story: http://www.americanmotorcyclist.com/NewsView/11-04-19/New_study_shows_motorcycle_deaths_decline_slightly.aspx

            Placerville, Calif.: Wet weather has caused the seasonal dirt road closure on the Eldorado National Forest to be extended until at least May 13. Forest visitors are encouraged to contact the nearest Ranger Station or to visit the Eldorado National Forest website at http://www.fs.fed.us/r5/eldorado for the latest information on the closure.

            This past winter the forest received 160 percent of normal precipitation and many areas in the forest are still under a significant snow pack. The seasonal closure does not affect routes in the Rock Creek Area of the Eldorado National Forest near Georgetown, CA, which are managed under different closure criteria.

            Johnson Valley, Calif.: Riders are encouraged to submit their comments regarding the Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center proposed base expansion. This proposed enlargement of the facility could restrict your ability to access the Johnson Valley Off-Highway Vehicle Recreation Area. Comments on the Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS) are due by May 26, 2011 in order to be considered in the final EIS and can be submitted via the official comment website at www.marines.mil/unit/29palms/las or via U.S. mail.

            The DEIS analyzes potential effects and impacts associated with the proposed base expansion. To download a copy of the DEIS (941 pages) or to find where hard copies are available for review click here. The AMA has been working with a number of concerned groups on this issue and had previously submitted these comments during the scoping phase of the DEIS. 

            Topeka, Kan.: House Bill 2192, authored by the House Transportation Committee, authorizes motorcycle and bicycle riders stuck at traffic-actuated signals that malfunction or fail to detect their vehicles to proceed with caution through the intersection after coming to a complete stop and waiting a reasonable period of time. Before proceeding, the motorcyclist or bicyclist must yield the right-of-way to any other vehicle in or near the intersection and pedestrians within adjacent crosswalks. Governor Brownback signed the bill into law Apr. 13; it takes effect Jun. 1.

            Baton Rouge, La.: Governor Bobby Jindal’s administration has proposed raiding dozens of government set-aside funds, including the motorcycle safety program fund. The proposed “fund sweep” of $231 million would partially offset a $1.6 billion shortfall in state finances. House Bill 1, sponsored by Rep. James R. Fannin (D-Jonesboro), has been assigned to the House Appropriations Committee. Louisiana motorcyclists are urged to contact their legislators to voice their strong support for rider education and their disapproval of any raids on the motorcycle safety program fund.

           Source and full story: http://www.forbes.com/feeds/ap/2011/04/22/business-us-louisiana-budget-raiding-funds_8430703.html

            Also House Bill 167, sponsored by Rep. Frank Howard (R-Many) and co-sponsored by Rep. M.J. "Mert" Smiley, Jr. (R-Port Vincent), would enhance penalties for those convicted or pleading guilty to any right-of-way violation resulting in serious bodily injury or death to another roadway user. This bill, to be known as the 2011 Pickholtz Act, will further enhance roadway safety by building on legislation signed into law last year covering right-of-way violations at stop and yield signs.

            Proctor, Minn.: The 20th Ride to Work Day is scheduled for Jun. 20, 2011. This annual event is intended to highlight how riding makes parking easier and increases traffic flow.        

            As every rider knows, motorcycles and scooters consume fewer resources per mile than automobiles and they take up less space in parking areas and on the roads. Riders are asked to pursue employer support for this form of transportation, and increased government and public awareness about riding's many benefits.

           Source and full story: www.ridetowork.org/

            Raleigh, N. C.: House Bill 392, sponsored by Rep. Kelly Hastings (R-Cherryville) and Senate Bill 480, sponsored by Sen. Kathy Harrington (R-Gastonia), would permit motorcycle operators and passengers 18 years of age and older to make their own decision regarding motorcycle helmet use. 

            HB-392 is in the House Transportation Committee while SB-480 is in the Rules and Operations of the Senate Committee; both face a May 12 crossover deadline. North Carolina motorcyclists are encouraged to review the Action Alerts on HB-392 and SB-480 at http://capwiz.com/amacycle/issues/alert/?alertid=44221501&type=CU&show_alert=1

            Also North Carolina legislators have agreed to exempt adult drivers of all-terrain vehicles from helmet and eye protection requirements while riding on private property.

            The Senate approved a bill amending a 2005 law for ATVs after it appeared the measure had been defeated. The bill now goes to Gov. Beverly Perdue.

           Source and full story: http://www.wtkr.com/news/sns-ap-nc-xgr--atvhelmets,0,7547105.story

            Columbus, Ohio: Effective Oct. 1, 2009 a $20.00 late fee was imposed on any vehicle registration or driver’s license renewal that was applied for seven or more days after its expiration date. However, seasonal vehicles such as motorcycles, mopeds, golf carts, all purpose vehicles (APVs), snowmobiles and non-commercial trailers are exempted from being assessed a late fee.

            If you were charged a $20.00 late fee for renewing your motorcycle registration seven or more days after it expired, you may apply for a refund of the late fee by writing the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles, Dealer Licensing & Specialty Plate Services, PO Box 16521, Columbus, OH 43216-6521 or by calling 1-800-589-8247. All Ohio deputy registrars have access to a Vehicle Registration Manual that outlines the specific vehicles considered seasonal vehicles.

            Columbia, S.C.: The legislature has passed an amended version of the All-Terrain Vehicle Safety Act, also known as “Chandler’s Law”. The amended version would make it illegal for anyone under the age of 6 to operate an ATV. The legislation would also require that riders under 16 years of age complete a “hands-on” ATV-safety course approved by the All-Terrain Vehicle Safety Institute. The measure will now go before Gov. Nikki Haley (R), who has previously indicated that she would sign the legislation. 

            Spokane, Wash.: The Spokane County Planning Commission is considering an amendment to the county zoning code that could eliminate recreational riding on most private property. The proposed restrictions include a minimum parcel size of 10 acres, setbacks of 100 feet from all property lines, setbacks of 250 feet from all neighboring residential structures, limited hours of use and a requirement that only residents of a parcel could ride there.
            Riders, as well as their family and friends, are encouraged to submit written comments and also to attend the public hearing, now scheduled to begin at 9am on May 26, 2011 in the Commissioner's Hearing Room, Lower Level, Spokane County Public Works Building.
            Source and full story: http://capwiz.com/amacycle/issues/alert/?alertid=7727866&type=CU&show_alert=1

            Olympia, Wash.: SB 5800, which would allow the use of modified off-highway motorcycles on public roads, has been signed into law by the governor. The law allows motorcycle owners to convert off-highway motorcycles to dual use by requiring the Department of Licensing to create a declaration to be submitted by the motorcycle owner when applying for dual use status.

May 2011
 

            Washington, D.C.: The AMA invites all youth riders and their families to attend the AMA Family Capitol Hill Climb on Thursday, May 26, at the nation’s Capitol. The day will begin with a welcome briefing followed by a press event and conclude with attendees meeting their member of congress to urge support for the Kids Just Want to Ride Act - legislation that, if approved by Congress, would exempt youth-model motorcycles and ATVs from the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA) of 2008. Unless the CPSIA is repealed or modified, it will effectively ban the sale of youth-model motorcycles and ATVs at the end of 2011 due to concerns about the lead content of some parts.

            If you plan to attend the AMA Family Capitol Hill Climb, please complete the registration form by Thursday, May 12. For event details, trip planning assistance, and help arranging a meeting with your member of Congress contact the AMA’s Grassroots Team by phone (202) 742-4310 or e-mail grassroots@ama-cycle.org.

            Source and full story: http://www.americanmotorcyclist.com/KidsJustWantToRide.aspx

            Washington D.C.: Legislation to be introduced in Congress that supports greater access to public lands. Representative and Majority Whip Kevin McCarthy (R-CA) along with Representative Rob Bishop (R-UT), Chairman of the House Subcommittee on National Parks, Forests and Public Lands and Representative Steve Pearce (R-NM), Chairman of the Congressional Western Caucus plan to introduce the Wilderness and Roadless Area Release Act of 2011 shortly. This bill would remove restrictions to motorized access on more than 40 million acres of public land nationwide.

            According to a "Dear Colleague" letter circulated by McCarthy, Bishop and Pearce, the bill "...would release all Wilderness Study Areas (WSAs) and Inventoried Roadless Areas (IRAs), which have been recommended or evaluted as not suitable for wilderness by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) or the U.S. Forest Service (USFS)..."            

            Moreover, this legislation would terminate the U.S. Department of the Interior Secretarial Order 3310 as it relates to these lands. On Dec. 22, 2010, Interior Secretary Ken Salazar signed Secretarial Order 3310 creating a new land-use designation called Wild Lands that essentially allows officials in the BLM to manage public land as if it had received a "Wilderness" land-use designation from Congress, but without requiring congressional approval.

          Source and full story: http://capwiz.com/amacycle/issues/alert/?alertid=39932506

            Montgomery, Ala.: Senate Joint Resolution 17, sponsored by Sen. Dick Brewbaker (R-Montgomery) and signed by Governor Robert Bentley, urges the Alabama Department of Transportation to direct all available roadside traffic advisory signage to display the legend “Watch for Motorcycles” throughout the month of May 2011 when more urgent messages are not displayed.

            Sacramento, Calif.: Assembly Bill 628, sponsored by Asm. Connie Conway (R-Visalia) would authorize, until January 1, 2017, the County of Inyo to establish a pilot project to designate combined use highways in the unincorporated area in the county. The bill links together existing roads in the unincorporated portion of the county to existing trails and trailheads on federal lands, and would provide a unified linkage of trail systems for off-highway motor vehicles.

            AB-628 would require the County of Inyo, in consultation with the Department of the California Highway Patrol, the Department of Transportation, and the Department of Parks and Recreation to prepare and submit a report, to the Legislature no later than January 1, 2016 that evaluates the effectiveness of the pilot project, and contains specified information.

            Johnson Valley, Calif.: Riders are encouraged to attend a series of public meetings on the proposed Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center base expansion. The proposal could restrict access to the Johnson Valley Off-Highway Vehicle Recreation Area. The meetings will focus on the recently released Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS), and will be hosted by the United States Marine Corps (USMC) and the BLM. The DEIS analyzes potential environmental impacts associated with the proposed base expansion. Representatives from the USMC and the BLM will be on site to answer questions about the DEIS and address comments in an open house town hall format.

            For further information, please contact the BLM Barstow Field Office, (760) 252-6000, or the Proposed 29 Palms Training Land and Airspace Acquisition Project, (760) 830-3764. 

            Source: http://capwiz.com/amacycle/issues/alert/?alertid=36405501&type=CU&show_alert=1

            Boston, Mass.: House Bill 2179, sponsored by Rep. Anne Gobi (D-Spencer), would increase the penalties for vehicle operators who violate the right-of-way of another roadway user, resulting in serious bodily injury or death. Violators pleading or found guilty of a covered offense would be financially responsible to that injured person or persons, or their estate, for out of pocket medical or funeral expenses and actual lost wages in excess of what might otherwise be covered by the injured person’s liability insurance. They would also be responsible to the injured person’s insurers who may be obligated to pay such medical expenses.

            Also House Bill 895, sponsored by Rep. Demetrius Atsalis (D-Barnstable), would prohibit a city or town from adopting an ordinance, by-law or rule or regulation banning the use of motorcycles on any public way.

            Lansing, Mich.: Senate Bill 291, sponsored by Sen. Phillip J. Pavlov (R-St. Clair), would permit adult motorcycle operators and passengers who have held a motorcycle endorsement for at least two years or who have completed a motorcycle safety course approved by the state to make their own decision regarding motorcycle helmet use.

            Proctor, Minn.: The 20th Ride to Work Day is scheduled for June 20, 2011. This annual event is intended to highlight how riding makes parking easier and increases traffic flow.        

As every rider knows, motorcycles and scooters consume fewer resources per mile than automobiles and they take up less space in parking areas and on the roads. Riders are asked to pursue employer support for this form of transportation, and increased government and public awareness about riding's many benefits.

            Source and full story: www.ridetowork.org/

            Trenton, N.J.: Assembly Bill 1094, sponsored by Assembly Member Denise Coyle (R-Somerville) and Senate Bill 357, sponsored by Sen. Mike Doherty (R-Washington), would remove authority from the Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) to increase certain fees by regulation and rescinds previous fee increases for motorcycle registrations, among others. Registration fees for motorcycles were recently increased from $10 to $65 by the MVC. Future registration fees would be set by statute, not MVC regulation.

            Albany, N.Y.: Senate Bill 798, sponsored by Sen. Catharine Young (R-Olean), would provide an exemption from the state’s registration requirement for certain ATVs and off-highway motorcycles. The exemption would only apply if the vehicle is used only on lands owned by the vehicle owner or where the vehicle owner has certain “contractual” rights to the land.

            Raleigh, N.C.: House Bill 381, sponsored by Rep. John Torbett (R-Stanley), would prevent law enforcement agencies from establishing patterns for vehicle stops at checking stations based on a particular type of vehicle.

            Pickerington, Ohio: The AMA has a supply of "Kids Just Want to Ride" and "Stop the Land Grab" decals. These decals are a great way to visibly show your stance against the law that could stop kids from riding forever and your opposition to unwarranted efforts by anti-access groups to restrict access to public lands. To request a decal, send a self-addressed stamped envelope to the address below and specify which decal(s) you would like on the attention line. If you are an AMA member, please include your membership number.

American Motorcyclist Association
Attn: Kids Ride (and/or) STLG
13515 Yarmouth Drive
Pickerington, OH 43147-8214

Source and full story: http://capwiz.com/amacycle/issues/alert/?alertid=26543521&queueid=%5bcapwiz:queue_id]

            Providence, R.I.: Senate Bill 307, sponsored by Sen. John J. Tassoni (D-Smithfield), would require public buildings to provide designated parking spaces for motorcycles at the rate of one space per total of 30 spaces. Unauthorized use of the designated space would result in a fine of $85.00. Signs designating parking spaces for motorcycle parking would be provided by the respective entity.

            Columbia, S.C.: The House of Representatives has approved legislation that would make it illegal for anyone less than 9 years of age to operate an ATV. Gov. Nikki Haley (R) has indicated that she will sign the measure into law if it reaches her desk. 
            The All-Terrain Vehicle Safety Act, also known as "Chandler's Law", would not only make it illegal for anyone under the age of 9 to operate an ATV, it would also place limits on the use of ATVs by anyone under the age of 16. In lieu of an age-based ban, the AMA has asked state lawmakers to consider adopting a "size-fit" criterion for young riders and to focus on expanding youth safety training opportunities.
            The House approved version of the bill, (H3562) was sent to the Senate on April 5^..Its companion bill (S448) still resides in the Senate Committee on Fish, Game and Forestry.
            Source: http://capwiz.com/amacycle/issues/alert/?alertid=31760521&type=ST&show_alert=1

            Olympia, Wash.: SB 5800, which would allow the use of modified off-road motorcycles on public roads, has been passed out of the legislature and is awaiting the governor’s signature. The bill would require the Department of Licensing to create a declaration to be submitted by the motorcycle owner when applying for on-road registration of an off-road motorcycle.

            The declaration must include the following: documentation of a safety inspection conducted by a licensed dealership or repair shop; documentation that the licensed dealership or repair shop did not charge more than $100 for the inspection, all of which goes to the dealership or repair shop; verification of the vehicle identification number; and a release signed by the owner that releases the state from liability.

April 2011

            Washington D.C.: 50 lawmakers now support H.R. 412, The Kids Just Want to Ride Act. This important legislation is gaining momentum on Capitol Hill, and would exempt kids' dirtbikes and all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) from the "lead law" that effectively bans their sale at the end of the year.  Introduced by Rep. Denny Rehberg (R-Mont.), the bill seeks to exempt kids' off-highway vehicles (OHVs) from the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA) of 2008, which is also known as the lead law.

            The CPSIA bans the making, importing, distributing or selling of any product intended for children 12 and under that contains more than a specified amount of lead in any accessible part. It also requires all children's products undergo periodic testing by independent laboratories approved by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), which is responsible for implementing the law.

            The CPSC has delayed enforcing key portions of the law until after the end of the year. However, unless the CPSIA is changed by then, the sale of child-sized dirtbikes and ATVs will effectively be banned.

            Washington, D.C.: Help protect the future of youth riding by circulating a petition in support of H.R. 412, the Kids Just Want to Ride Act. To request a copy of the petition, e-mail the AMA’s Grassroots Team at grassroots@ama-cycle.org. In the e-mail subject line please note: Petition. Thank you for your efforts to help protect the future of youth riding.

            Washington D.C.: New 'Wild Lands' policy blasted at congressional hearing. The U.S. Interior Department's new "Wild Lands" land-use policy was sharply criticized during a congressional hearing on March 1. The policy could close millions of acres of federal land to responsible motorized recreation.

            Idaho Gov. C.L. "Butch" Otter argued that, with the new policy, the Interior Department "has circumvented the sovereignty of states and the will of the public." Utah Gov. Gary Herbert said that "by bureaucratic fiat, one branch of government has overstepped and overreached and has devalued the rights of the states and the citizens."

            They joined several others in testifying before the House Committee on Natural Resources on "The Impact of the Administration's Wild Lands Order on Jobs and Economic Growth." 

            Robert Abbey, director of the federal Bureau of Land Management (BLM), defended the Wild Lands policy, testifying that it "restores balance to the BLM's multiple-use management of the public lands in accordance with applicable law." 

            Source and full story: http://www.americanmotorcyclist.com/NewsView/11-03-01/New_Wild_Lands_policy_blasted_at_congressional_hearing.aspx

            Washington D.C.: Motorcycle-only checkpoints challenged. On March 3, Rep. Jim Sensenbrenner (R-Wis.) introduced H.R. 904. The legislation, with original co-sponsors Reps. Tom Petri (R-Wis.) and Paul Ryan (R-Wis.), would prohibit the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) "from providing grants or any funds to a state, county, town, or township, Indian tribe, municipal or other local government to be used for any program to check helmet usage or create checkpoints for a motorcycle driver or passenger."

            The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), which is part of the DOT, recently gave Georgia a $70,000 grant to conduct one or more roadside motorcycle-only checkpoints. New York State has operated a similar program using state funds. The AMA has been tracking this disturbing development of motorcycle-only checkpoints since it first appeared in New York several years ago.

            Source: http://capwiz.com/amacycle/issues/alert/?alertid=33070516.

            Atlanta, Ga.: House Bill 161, authored by Rep. Ann Purcell (R-Rincon), would permit motorcycle operators to proceed with caution through an intersection controlled by a traffic-actuated signal if, after waiting not less than 60 seconds, the actuator fails to recognize the motorcycle.

            Springfield, Ill.: House Bill 2860, sponsored by Rep. Dan Beiser (D-Alton), would permit motorcycle operators, facing a steady red signal that fails to change to green within a reasonable period of time because of a signal malfunction or because the signal fails to detect the presence of the motorcycle, to proceed subject to the rules applicable after making a stop at a stop sign.

            Topeka, Kan.: House Bill 2058, authored by the House Transportation Committee, would permit a motorcycle operator or bicycle rider facing any steady red traffic-actuated signal that fails to change to a green light with(in) a reasonable period of time to proceed with caution subject to the rules applicable after making a stop at a stop sign.

            Also House Bill 2199, authored by the House Transportation Committee, would increase penalties for certain right-of-way violations that result in serious bodily injury or death to another roadway user. Failure-to-yield violations at intersections, during left turns, at stop or yield signs, while entering or crossing roadways, and in construction or maintenance zones are covered offenses under HB-2199.

            Annapolis, Md.: House Bill 1282, sponsored by Del. Cheryl Glenn (D-Baltimore), would require vehicle parking facilities that are owned, leased, or operated by the State or a political subdivision of the State, or that receive funding from the State or a political subdivision of the State, to allow motorcycles to park in the facilities.

            Columbus, Md.: The Rider School at Howard Community College (HCC) convenes international experts in motorcycle training. Recently The Rider School at HCC hosted 16 of motorcycling’s top authors, advanced trainers, and noted researchers for a two-day experts’ panel on how to reduce motorcycle crashes and injuries. The groundbreaking event marked the first time internationally acclaimed experts had been gathered and tasked to consider how to improve beginner and street rider training. During the two-day meeting, the group developed 31 specific recommendations for improving motorcycling.

            The group then decided to prepare a report (forthcoming) aimed at influencing public awareness and public policy about riders and rider training. Organizers were invited to present the findings at the annual 2011 State Motorcycle Safety Administrators Conference in Des Moines, Iowa. The group also decided to form a think tank about motorcycle safety to be housed at HCC.

            For more information on the school visit www.RiderSchool.org.

            Jefferson City, Mo.: House Bill 114, sponsored by Rep. David Day (R-Dixon) and Senate Bill 28, sponsored by Sen. Dan Brown (R-Rolla), would permit operators and passengers 21 years-of-age or older to decide whether to wear a helmet while on a motorcycle or motortricycle.

            Reno, Nev.: Senate Bill 156, sponsored by Sen. Don Gustavson (R-Washoe), provides that a promoter or organizer of an off-road sporting event, or a private property owner upon whose land such an event is held, is not liable for any civil damages resulting from any unintended act or omission by such a promoter, organizer or private property owner that relates to the promotion, organization or occurrence of an off-road sporting event. The immunity from liability does not apply when the damages result from the gross negligence or intentional, reckless or wanton misconduct of the promoter, organizer or private property owner.

            Concord, N. H.: House Bill 148, sponsored by Rep. Frank Holden (R-Lyndeborough), would prohibit all New Hampshire law enforcement agencies from accepting federal funding to establish motorcycle-only roadside checkpoints.

            Albany, N. Y.: Assembly Bill 2587, sponsored by Asm. Carl Heastie (D-Bronx) and Senate Bill 1184, sponsored by Sen. Kevin Parker (D-Brooklyn), would add a requirement for motorcycle safety and awareness instruction to be included in the classroom course for all driver license applicants and at least two written questions on the driver’s test on motorcycle safety and awareness and the potential dangers to motorcyclists resulting from the unsafe behavior of vehicle operators sharing the roadways with motorcyclists.

            Also Assembly Bill 5364, sponsored by Asm. Donna Lupardo (D-Endwell) and Senate Bill 2974, sponsored by Sen. Michael Nozzolio (R-Seneca Falls), would permit operators and passengers 21 years-of-age or older to decide whether to wear a helmet while on a motorcycle.

            Pickerington, Ohio: The AMA has a supply of "Kids Just Want to Ride" and "Stop the Land Grab" decals. These decals are a great way to visibly show your stance against the law that could stop kids from riding forever and your opposition to unwarranted efforts by anti-access groups to restrict access to public lands. To request a decal, send a self-addressed stamped envelope to the address below and specify which decal(s) you would like on the attention line. If you are an AMA member, please include your membership number.

American Motorcyclist Association
GRD
Attn: Kids Ride (and/or) STLG
13515 Yarmouth Drive
Pickerington, OH 43147-8214

Source and full story: http://capwiz.com/amacycle/issues/alert/?alertid=26543521&queueid=%5bcapwiz:queue_id]

            Salem, Ore.: H.B. 3141, sponsored by Rep. Andy Olson (R-Albany), would amend the Oregon motorcycle helmet requirement to apply only to riders and passengers under 21 years old.

            Harrisburg, Penn.: House Bill 563, sponsored by Rep. Richard Geist (R-Altoona), would exempt from civil liability landowners who authorize their property to be used for an approved motorcycle safety education program, unless the owner fails to warn against dangerous conditions, uses, structures or activities.

            Providence, R. I.: House Bill 5370, sponsored by Rep. Peter John Petrarca (D-Lincoln) and Senate Bill 19, sponsored by Sen. John Tassoni (D-Smithfield), would require designated parking spaces for motorcycles adjacent to or within plain sight of state, city and town buildings, excepting airports. For each public building with thirty or more off-street parking spaces, at least one dedicated motorcycle parking space must be provided. For every thirty additional spaces, an additional motorcycle parking space (up to a maximum of five) must be provided. Unauthorized use of a designated motorcycle parking space would result in an $85.00 fine to the vehicle owner.

            Nashville, Tenn.: House Bill 1810, sponsored by Rep. John Tidwell (D- New Johnsonville) and Senate Bill 1290, sponsored by Sen. Steve Southerland (R-Morristown), would require nonresidents over 21 years of age who are operating a motorcycle registered in another state to comply with the mandatory motorcycle equipment laws of that state.

March 2011

            Washington D.C.: Kids Just Want to Ride Act, H.R. 412, has been introduced. On January 25, Representative Denny Rehberg (MT) introduced H.R. 412, the Kids Just Want to Ride Act of 2011, which would exempt kids' off-highway vehicles (OHVs) from the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA) of 2008 that effectively bans their sale beginning December 31, 2011. H.R. 412 is the most promising and viable legislative remedy available to permanently exclude kid-sized motorcycles and ATVs from the unintended consequences of the CPSIA.

           The AMA strongly supports this bipartisan effort and is urging everyone who is concerned with the future of youth riding to contact his or her representative and ask them to cosponsor H.R. 412, the Kids Just Want to Ride Act of 2011.

            Source and full story: http://www.capwiz.com/amacycle/issues/alert/?alertid=23903516&type=CO

            Washington D.C.: Congressional Motorcycle Caucus goes back to work. U.S. Reps. Michael Burgess (R-Texas) and Gabrielle Giffords (D-Ariz.) will remain as co-chairs of the Congressional Motorcycle Caucus for the new 112th Congress.

            The bi-partisan caucus, which has existed for many years, was formally recognized by the U.S. House for the new Congress. Official caucuses must register and be recognized at the start of every two-year Congress. The caucus is made up of members of Congress who are passionate about motorcycling and who work to promote the interests of motorcyclists. 

            Source and full story: http://www.americanmotorcyclist.com/NewsView/11-02-03/Congressional_Motorcycle_Caucus_goes_back_to_work.aspx

            Washington D.C.: The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) has announced a competitive Cooperative Agreement opportunity for National Trails Training. The FHWA hereby requests applications from government agencies, institutions of higher learning, or nonprofit organizations to result in the award of a Cooperative Agreement for National Trails Training.

            Trails training developed and provided under this Agreement will provide technical assistance to agency staff and the public to enhance trail planning, design, construction, maintenance, and management on all kinds of trails on federal, state, local, and private lands.

            Source and full story: National Trails Training

            Washington D.C.: The Coalition for Recreational Trails is pleased to announce its 2011 achievement awards to recognize outstanding trail projects funded by the national Recreational Trails Program (RTP). The awards will be presented on June 15, 2011 in Washington, D.C. as part of the Coalition’s ongoing effort to build awareness and appreciation of this highly successful program. Award winners will be selected from projects nominated by public agencies, trail administrators or other project sponsors. Award categories include:  construction and design; maintenance and rehabilitation; education and communications initiatives; accessibility enhancement; multiple-use management or “corridor sharing”; environment/wildlife compatibility; and use of youth conservation/service corps. Forms for submitting nominations can be obtained from the AMA by contacting Sheila Andrews, Senior Legislative Assistant at sandrews@ama-cycle.org.

            Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada: International Experienced Rider Training Symposium (ERTS) to be held in Niagara Falls, ON May 25-27, 2011. This Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme (FIM) sanctioned event will be hosted by the Canadian Motorcycle Association and the Canadian Safety Council. Organized every three years in a different country, this event allows an opportunity for attendees to sample rider training from around the world. This year’s event will focus on principles utilized in Canadian programming. For more details including a video of the last ERTS held in Germany and to register, please visit www.erts.ca.

            Des Moines, Iowa: Department of Natural Resources (DNR) launches online ATV education course. www.ATVCourse.com. This online course features a narrated and interactive study guide, as well as visual exam and quiz questions. Riders 12 through 17 years of age must have an education certificate in order to ride an ATV on public land and public ice in Iowa.

            The course and exam questions contain hundreds of detailed illustrations, as well as narrated course content and interactive exercises. The online ATV education course has a one-time fee of $34.95, which includes the course, chapter quizzes and unlimited attempts at the final ATV certification exam for Iowa. The course is also available to anyone as a free study guide.

            Source and full story: http://www.iowadnr.gov/news/11jan/atv.html

            Concord, N.H.: The state's federal court has declined to hear a motorcycle noise dispute and remanded the case back to Rockingham County Superior Court. Additionally, it ordered the plaintiffs to pay a local Harley-Davidson dealership's legal fees.

            On Feb. 4, U.S. District Court Judge Landya McCafferty ruled that the case belongs in the superior court, not the federal court. The underlying dispute involves a superior court lawsuit filed by Seacoast Motorcycles in opposition to North Hampton's new ordinance regulating decibel levels emitted by motorcycles. The ordinance requires a U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) sticker on all motorcycles manufactured after 1982.

            That level is lower than the state of New Hampshire's 106-decibel requirement. In its suit, the dealership asks the court to file a restraining order preventing North Hampton from enforcing the motorcycle noise ordinance, to declare that state law trumps the local ordinance in terms of motorcycle noise, and to award attorney's fees.

            Last year the N.H. House killed a bill that would have mandated EPA stickers on motorcycle pipes as “inexpedient to legislate.” The bill was sponsored by former state Rep. Judith Day, D-North Hampton.

            Source and full story: http://www.seacoastonline.com/articles/20110207-NEWS-110209827

            Concord, N.H.: House Bill 148, sponsored by Rep. Frank Holden (R-Lyndeborough), would prohibit any law enforcement agency of the state or a political subdivision of the state from accepting federal funding to establish motorcycle-only roadside checkpoints.

            Santa Fe, N.M.: House Bill 91 would reallocate $750,000 from the State Trail Safety Fund, basically gutting the program’s budget. This fund was created at the behest of the user community primarily to build and maintain trails. A similar attempt to take $800,000 from this important fund was vetoed by the previous administration in 2009.

            Riders are encouraged to visit http://www.nmohva.org/ for the latest information.

            Albany, N.Y.: Assembly Bill 930, sponsored by Asm. Felix Ortiz (D-Brooklyn) provides that drivers who cause crashes that result in serious physical injury or death while talking on a cellular phone shall be subject to identical criminal penalties as those persons who cause crashes that result in serious physical injury or death while driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

            Pickerington, Ohio: The AMA has a supply of "Kids Just Want to Ride" and "Stop the Land Grab" decals. These decals are a great way to demonstrate your stance against the law that could stop kids from riding forever and your opposition to unwarranted efforts by anti-access groups to restrict access to public lands. To request a decal, send a self-addressed stamped envelope to the address below and specify which decal(s) you would like on the attention line. If you are an AMA member, please include your membership number.

American Motorcyclist Association
GRD
Attn: Kids Ride (and/or) STLG
13515 Yarmouth Drive
Pickerington, OH 43147-8214

            Source and full story: http://capwiz.com/amacycle/issues/alert/?alertid=26543521&queueid=%5bcapwiz:queue_id]

            Providence, R.I.: Senate Bill 19, sponsored by Sen. John J. Tassoni (D-Smithfield), would require designated parking spaces for motorcycles to be provided in parking areas that are adjacent to, or within plain sight of, state, city, and town buildings, with the exception of state airports. For public buildings with thirty or more off-street parking spaces, at least one parking space shall be dedicated for motorcycle-only parking. For every additional thirty parking spaces adjacent to a public building, an additional motorcycle parking space, up to a maximum of five additional motorcycle parking spaces, shall be provided.

            Nashville, Tenn.: Senate Bill 74, sponsored by Sen. Doug Overbey (R-Maryville), would prohibit a child under age five years as a motorcycle passenger on any public roadway. A violation would be a Class C misdemeanor and subject the offender to a fifty dollar fine in lieu of an appearance in court.

            Austin, Texas: The Department of Transportation (TxDOT) is working on motorcycle-specific outreach to reduce highway fatalities. According to Carol Rawson, director of TxDOT’s Traffic Operations Division, TxDOT will be introducing a motorcycle “Share the Road” public information campaign.

            The department has been testing a new program of caution signs encouraging safe travel for motorcyclists on high-use routes. TxDOT rolled out the program on scenic Hill Country highways just before Halloween. Some roads got motorcycle-specific “Stay Alert, Save a Life” signs that caution riders to be alert through the next few miles.

            The first four signs were unveiled on part of the Three Sisters loop, a popular route for motorcyclists and drivers alike. TxDOT also put four of the new signs on FM 244 in Grimes County. The agency will evaluate the effectiveness of these new signs for possible use on other popular motorcycle routes throughout the state.

            Source and full story: http://www.dealernews.com/dealernews/LATEST+NEWS/Texas-DOT-programs-focus-on-motorcycle-safety/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/703914?ref=25

            Vt.: Agency of Natural Resources (ANR) announces plans to revoke a rule allowing ATVs on state lands. Debate over the use of state lands by ATV riders has been renewed after new leaders at the ANR revealed plans to reverse a recent rule opening the door for ATV trails on public land. Riders deplore the policy reversal, saying it is important to provide more legal trails to reduce illegal riding.

            The recently enacted rule, aimed at allowing ATV clubs to apply to build trails across public land to fill in gaps between trails on private land, was put in place in January 2010 by the administration of former governor, Jim Douglas, who was recently succeeded by Peter Shumlin. Governor Shumlin had spoken against the policy during his campaign last year.

            Local ATV clubs have at least two pending applications for new trails that, if the rule is rescinded, would have a much tougher time being approved.

            Source and full story: http://www.burlingtonfreepress.com/article/20110120/NEWS03/110120020/Vermont-to-revoke-rule-allowing-ATVs-on-state-land

            Richmond, Va.: House Bill 1981, sponsored by Del. Thomas A Greason (R-Potomac Falls), would permit a motorcycle or moped operator or a bicycle rider to proceed through a steady red light at an intersection controlled by a traffic-actuated signal under certain circumstances. The operator or rider must come to a complete stop and wait for two complete cycles of the traffic light before proceeding with due care and after determining it is safe to do so.

February 2011

            Washington D.C.: More than a dozen federal lawmakers are asking the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) to delay enforcement of the so-called lead law that effectively bans the sale of kid-sized dirtbikes and all-terrain vehicles (ATVs). The CPSC, charged with carrying out the law known as the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA) of 2008, has already postponed enforcement of a key portion of the law until May 1. The lawmakers want the federal agency to delay the enforcement even longer so that the current Congress can tackle the issue.

            Source and full story: http://www.americanmotorcyclist.com/NewsView/11-01-07/Federal_lawmakers_seek_delay_in_enforcement_of_lead_law.aspx

            Washington, D.C.: Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.) dropped a last minute attempt to pass a massive omnibus public lands bill that would have restricted responsible off-highway vehicle (OHV) access to thousands of acres of public land with little public input.
            Reid introduced the legislation, S. 303, the "America's Great Outdoors Act of 2010," on Friday, Dec. 17, as a substitute to unrelated legislation titled the "Federal Financial Assistance Management Improvement Act of 2009." Reid's move was reminiscent of the controversial parliamentary tactic that anti-OHV forces used in 2009 to close 2.1 million acres of public land.
            The bill was a collection of more than 70 measures and more than 1,000 pages in length. Key Representatives and Senators voiced opposition to the measure, as did thousands of riders who sent emails and made phone calls to express their opposition.
            Source and full story: http://www.americanmotorcyclist.com/NewsView/10-12-22/Senate_Majority_Leader_Harry_Reid_pulls_omnibus_public_lands_bill.aspx

            Washington, D.C.; Immediately after Congress adjourned, Interior Department (DOI) Secretary Ken Salazar announced that the DOI will review some 220 million acres of BLM land that is not currently under Wilderness protection to see which lands should be redesignated uinder the newly created "Wild Lands" designation. The administration’s move could close lands without congressional approval, and make millions of acres eligible for future Wilderness protection or National Monument label.

            Source and full story: http://www.denverpost.com/nationworld/ci_16929389

            California: A new state law makes possession of motorcycle theft tools illegal. Assembly Bill 1848, sponsored by Asm. Martin Garrick (R-Solana Beach), targets so-called "pigtails", which are homemade ignitions that can allow a crook to start a motorcycle in as little as 20 seconds. As of Jan. 1, 2011, possessing such a device will be a misdemeanor, and anyone caught with one could get up to six months in jail and be fined $1,000.

           Previously state law banned the possession of burglar tools such as "slim jims," shaved keys and bolt cutters, if law enforcement can establish the intent to use them to break into or steal a car, truck or SUV, but not a motorcycle.
          Source and full story: http://www.760kfmb.com/Global/story.asp?S=13751628

            Scotts Valley, Calif.: The Scotts Valley Police Department became the first law enforcement agency in California to accept delivery of a Zero DS electric motorcycle to assist in local patrols and traffic enforcement. The acquisition serves as a benchmark for evaluating the performance capabilities of the electric motorcycles in law enforcement situations, such as responding through traffic and on local bike trails.

            Source and full story: http://tomorrowstechnician.com/Article/83058/scotts_valley_police_patrol_the_streets_in_silence_with_electric_motorcycle.aspx

            Idaho: U.S. Forest Service seeking road user input regarding shared use. Salmon-Challis National Forest officials are seeking input on whether to close high-use, high-speed forest roads to OHV riders for safety and liability reasons, or adopt alternatives such as public education, post warning signs or widening roads.

            The forest is seeking public comments via a posting on its website on how to prevent or reduce the risk of accidents on heavily traveled forest roads. Since 2009, when the Idaho legislature eliminated a provision in Idaho Code requiring OHV riders to carry a driver’s license, the Forest Service has been discussing ways to avoid crashes between young, inexperienced ATV riders and other vehicles.

            Forest officials are backing away from restrictions such as closing roads to OHV riders and leaning heavily toward public education, including putting up “Share the Road” signs on high-traffic roads of concern such as the Custer Motorway.

           Source and full story: http://www.challismessenger.com/index.php?accnum=story-5-20110106

            Indianapolis, Ind.: Senate Bill 108, sponsored by Sen. Edward Charbonneau (R-Valparaiso), would permit the purchase, sale, or trade of motorcycles on Sunday. Currently, it is a Class B misdemeanor to do so.

            Frankfort, Ky.: House Bill 163, sponsored by Rep. Jim Wayne (D-Louisville), would require all motorcycle operators and passengers to wear approved protective headgear, in the manner prescribed by the secretary of the Transportation Cabinet, at all times that the vehicle is in motion.

            Lincoln, Neb.: Legislative Bill 52, sponsored by Sen. Bob Krist (NP-Omaha), would permit adults, those over 15 but less than 21 years-of-age and with satisfactory completion of a motorcycle safety course to make their own decision regarding motorcycle helmet use. Satisfactory completion would require compliance with the relevant regulations under the Motorcycle Safety Education Act. Qualified motorcyclists would be required to carry a “helmet not required” label on their Class M operator’s license or under the Class M endorsement on their operator’s license.

            The bill also requires eye protection for all motorcycle operators and passengers in the form of glasses that cover the orbital region of a person's face, a protective face shield attached to a protective helmet, goggles or a windshield on the motorcycle that protects the operator's and passengers horizontal line of vision in all operating positions.

             Jackson, Miss.: House Bill 311, sponsored by Rep. Rita Martinson (R-Madison), would require the Department of Public Safety to establish and operate a motorcycle safety and operator training program. An additional $5.00 annual highway privilege tax on each motorcycle and an additional $1.00 fee on each temporary motorcycle operator’s permit would provide partial funding for the program. If enacted, the bill would exempt first–time applicants for a motorcycle endorsement or a restricted motorcycle operator’s license from the written and skill tests if they provide a certificate showing successful completion of a course.

            Also House Bill 253, sponsored by Rep. Larry Byrd (R-Petal), would authorize the issuance of special motorcycle license plates for recipients of the Purple Heart Medal.

            Las Vegas, Nev.: The Metropolitan Police Department recently unveiled seven electric motorcycles at its Convention Center Area Command. The motorcycles were donated by the Consumer Electronics Association and are nearly silent with a top speed of 62 mph. Police said officers have pushed them to 65 mph. The motorcycles are not intended for high-speed chases but will be used where they're most effective: on “The Strip”, one of the most congested areas in the valley.

            Source and full story: http://www.lvrj.com/news/vegas-police-go-green-with-electric-scooters-112881474.html

            Albuquerque, N. M.: The New Mexico Off-Highway Vehicle Alliance (NMOHVA) has won their appeal of the recent Travel Management Plan decision for the Mountainair Ranger District of Cibola National Forest. The recent notice, sent by the Southwestern Region office, announced the reversal of the decision because the Mountainair Range District’s Travel Management Environmental Assessment didn't disclose effects to forest-wide trends for habitats and populations in a consistent manner.

            The Forest's decision would have removed 253 miles of existing roads from public use. This represents a closure of over half of the roads on the Mountainair District. The decision also would have severely limited where the public could enjoy motorized camping by limiting dispersed motorized camping to less than 24 miles of camping corridors.

            NMOHVA has been directly involved with the Forest Service's Travel Management planning process across all New Mexico forests to ensure appropriate access and motorized recreation opportunities are preserved and promoted. NMOHVA provided formal input to the Mountainair Ranger District Travel Management process during Scoping and provided written comments on the draft Environmental Assessment. When the decision ignored these comments, NMOHVA exercised their right to appeal. Visit www.NMOHVA.org for more information.

            Albany, N. Y.: Assembly Bill 135, sponsored by Asm. Rory Lancman (D-Fresh Meadows) would require the inspection and sound-level testing of all motorcycle exhaust systems during the New York State vehicle inspection process. A motorcycle would have to comply with the sound level provisions established in Section 386 of the Vehicle and Traffic Law in order to pass the inspection and receive a validation sticker.

            North Carolina: A new law requires anyone under 18 who applies for a motorcycle license in North Carolina to pass a safety class. The course, which is also required for those seeking a learner’s permit or motorcycle endorsement, must be taught by the Motorcycle Safety Foundation or the N.C. Motorcycle Safety Education Program. The new law also says that a person less than 18 years of age may not ride a motorcycle with a passenger.

            In addition, the law closes a loophole that allowed motorcyclists to receive an 18-month permit and renew it indefinitely. This allowed them to hit the road after simply passing a vision test, a highway sign test and a written motorcycle knowledge test.

            Source and full story: http://www.salisburypost.com/News/010510-New-state-laws-qcd

            Nelsonville, Ohio: The Wayne National Forest reminds the public that Wednesday, December 15th was the last day motorized trail riders, mountain bikers, and horseback riders can use its designated trails for the season. Beginning on Thursday, December 16th, trails will only be open to hikers until their scheduled reopening on April 15, 2011.

            The 241,000-acre national forest in southeastern Ohio has over 300 miles of trails for hiking, all-terrain vehicle (ATV) riding, mountain biking, or horseback riding. Trails are closed annually during the wet winter months due to excessive resource damage during freezing and thawing.

            Spanish Fork, Utah: The Utah Shared Access Alliance (USA-ALL) will host a land use activist seminar. This free seminar, scheduled for January 29, 2011, is designed for individuals and clubs who want to learn more about how they can get involved with and be effective in fighting to keep their favorite places open. Topics of discussion will include: current legislative briefing, working with federal agencies, contacting elected representatives, working with legislation and policy, club organization, strategic tools, success stories, & more. Visit http://www.usaall.org/web128/latenews.htm for more information and to register for this event.

January 2011

            Washington D.C.: The Consumer Product Safety Commission has extended to Jan. 25, 2011 the date by which OEMs and importers must begin using accredited third-party labs to certify that Y6 and Y10 youth ATVs meet federal standards. The previous deadline was Nov. 26.

            The Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA) of 2008 dictates that eventually all children’s products subject to a product safety rule will require third-party testing. So while manufacturers may continue to use in-house testing for certifying adult ATVs, they are scrambling to find third-party labs for models intended primarily for children 12 and younger. The OEMs could also choose to create their own “third-party” labs through a process called firewalling.

            The commission invites comments on the possibility of a one-year stay. The types of comments sought are outlined in a Federal Register Notice under the subhead "III Commission Action on the Petition." The deadline for comments is Dec. 30, 2010.

            The stay of enforcement regarding the CPSIA “lead ban” ends May 11, 2011. At that point, the OEMs still selling illegal units will likely stop, making the third-party testing requirement a moot point. This is why the industry continues to seek a permanent solution to the lead ban through legislation.

            Source and full story: http://www.manatt.com/news.aspx?id=10764

            Washington D.C.: On November 15, the American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) and the All-Terrain Vehicle Association (ATVA) sent a letter to the U.S. House and Senate leadership regarding concerns that the Obama administration is taking unilateral action to restrict responsible motorized recreation on public lands.

            The AMA and ATVA's concerns are based on the America's Great Outdoors (AGO) initiative and the release of troubling Department of the Interior (DOI) internal documents that suggest up to 130 million acres be designated Wilderness and National Monument areas. These Wilderness and National Monument designations may make the land off limits to responsible off-highway riders.

            It is the understanding of the AMA and ATVA that a report on the AGO is due to the President in December. This date is concurrent with the return of Congress for the "lame-duck" session.

            Source and full story: http://capwiz.com/amacycle/issues/alert/?alertid=19755701

            California: The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) has released an internal report on Johnson Valley OHV race permits. An internal review by the BLM found its policies and procedures for permitting off-highway vehicle (OHV) events are sound, but the agency did not adhere to these procedures in permitting Mojave Desert Racing (MDR) Production’s California 200, the race that resulted in eight spectator fatalities in a tragic accident in San Bernardino County on August 14, 2010.

            In response to the report, BLM National Director Bob Abbey issued instructions to all BLM field offices nationwide that “reinforce the importance of following our procedures aimed at ensuring safety at all these events throughout the West.”

            The report concludes with specific action items to ensure effective special recreation permit administration and safety compliance at events; some are immediate and others long term. These include providing adequate BLM ranger and recreation staffing at all events, requiring companies to compensate the BLM for processing and administering permits that take up more than 50 hours of staff time, and requiring more oversight from the district and state office of BLM to check for policy compliance and program consistency.

            Source and full story: www.blm.gov/ca 

            Atlanta, Ga.: The Georgia Department of Driver Services has received a grant for its motorcycle safety training program.

            The Governor's Office of Highway Safety has approved the roughly $100,000 to be used to encourage motorists and motorcyclists to share the road responsibly and safely. The funds will be used to pilot test a mobile licensing project and to buy training motorcycles.

            The Georgia Motorcycle Safety Program offers basic motorcycle training for new riders and those who want to learn how to ride a motorcycle safely in today's traffic mix. Students do not need to own a motorcycle since the program provides both a motorcycle and a helmet. After the course, successful graduates receive a license waiver card that exempts them from both the written and driving tests.

            Albuquerque, N.M.: The New Mexico Off Highway Vehicle Alliance (NMOHVA) has won their appeal of the recent Travel Management Plan decision for the Mountainair Ranger District of Cibola National Forest. The notice, send by the Southwestern Region office on Monday, December 6^th, announced the reversal of the decision because the Mountainair Range District Travel Management Environmental Assessment didn't disclose effects to forest-wide trends for habitats and populations in a consistent manner.

            The Forest was also to found to have failed to disclose the basis for the conclusions on water and soils section of the Assessment. Regional office officials directed the Forest to complete a new analysis that complies with National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and other applicable requirements. The new analysis will also require a new public review and comment period.

            The Forest's decision would have removed 253 miles of existing roads from public use. This represents a closure of over half of the roads on the Mountainair District. The decision also would have severely limited where the public can enjoy motorized camping by limiting dispersed motorized camping to less than 24 miles of camping corridors.

            Source and full story: www.nmohva.org

            Pickerington, Ohio: The AMA has announced its 2010 AMA Motorcyclist of the Year (MOTY). Awarded annually, the MOTY designation recognizes the person(s) who has had the most profound impact on the world of motorcycling, for better or worse, in the previous 12 months.

            For 2010, that distinction belongs to outgoing California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger, whose signature on a controversial law will have far-reaching and potentially harmful effects on the motorcycling community nationwide.
            With no fanfare, Schwarzenegger signed a bill on Sept. 28 that fundamentally changes how California will regulate motorcycle exhaust systems. The new law, the Motorcycle Anti-Tampering Act, also maps a path for the rest of the country, as other state and local lawmakers look for their own answers to address excessive motorcycle sound.

            For most motorcycles, the law is a de-facto OEM (original equipment manufacturer) exhaust mandate because the federal standard was not designed for aftermarket manufacturers, and compliance for the scores of low-volume production models now on the market is extremely problematic.

            The AMA has long advocated reasonable measures be adopted for the regulation of excessive motorcycle sound, and cites the Society of Automotive Engineers J2825 motorcycle sound testing procedure as the most fair, economical and practical solution to the problem vexing communities nationwide.

            In making the announcement, AMA President and CEO said, "The California law is a poorly crafted piece of legislation that's discriminatory and does little to address the core problem of excessive sound from all sources, not just motorcycles. Rather than objectively regulate offensive noise, this law creates all sorts of problems for riders, law enforcement and aftermarket manufacturers."

            Source: http://amadirectlink.com/news/story.asp?id=2404

            Penn Township, Penn.: The taxi driver charged with the deaths of five motorcyclists last summer has waived his preliminary hearing Tuesday.

            Authorities allege Alfred Moore, who has had diabetes for 15 years, was suffering from severe hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, at the time of the crash because he had skipped lunch earlier in the day. Prosecutors allege Moore failed to treat his condition that day, causing him to drive erratically and lose control of the van.

            The legal consideration in charging a driver with homicide by vehicle is not intent but recklessness. District Attorney Craig Stedman has said Moore's severe hypoglycemia left the cab driver "incapable of operating the vehicle in a safe manner."

            Courts have previously upheld convictions in cases in which a defendant was aware of their medical condition but declined to maintain their health.

            In addition to the vehicular homicide charges, Moore is charged with two counts of recklessly endangering another person, reckless driving and disregarding a traffic lane.

            Source and full story: http://articles.lancasteronline.com/local/4/322563#ixzz17jQIiFbM 

            Olympia, Wash.: The state legislature is once again considering raiding the Off Road Vehicle (ORV) fund. The Washington Off-Highway Vehicle Alliance (WOHVA) has just reported that a raid by state parks on this important user funded program is expected shortly, and asks that all riders contact their representatives to voice their opposition.

            According to WOHVA, state park officials have been instructed to propose a budget that includes no state general fund monies, and in order to do this they must take all of the “Nonhighway and Offroad Vehicle Account” (NOVA) money permanently.

            Source: http://capwiz.com/amacycle/issues/alert/?alertid=20691016&type=ML&show_alert=1

            Huntington, W.V.: The December 22, 2010 scholarship application deadline for the spring semester OHV Recreation Management course at Marshall University, Planning and Design of OHV Parks, is fast approaching.

            This semester’s scholarship is being offered by the Nick J Rahall Appalachian Transportation Institute and is being administered by the National Off-Highway Vehicle Conservation Council (NOHVCC).

            For more information regarding the scholarship, or to receive an application, contact NOHVCC staff at trailhead@nohvcc.org. For additional information regarding the content of the course, contact Theresa Litteral M.S. at tlitteral@njrati.org.

            U.K.: New safety ratings for motorcycle helmets have revealed motorcycle helmets might look similar but there are often major differences below the surface, as new test results reveal. All helmets must meet minimum legal safety standards but the Department for Transport's Safety Helmet Assessment and Rating Program (SHARP) scheme uses a wider range of tests to give riders more information on how much protection each helmet can provide in a crash.  

            The tests, which award ratings of between one and five stars, showed that the safety performance of helmets can vary by as much as 70 percent. 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 and at a price they want to pay. 

Three helmets in the latest batch of 218 scored the top rating of five stars. Most of the others scored four stars with one helmet, scoring a single point.

            Source and full story: http://www.telegraph.co.uk/motoring/motorbikes/8168667/New-safety-ratings-for-motorcycle-helmets-revealed.html

            U.K.: New research using a world-leading motorcycle simulator to analyze rider behavior has proven that safer doesn't necessarily mean slower and that formal advanced training for bikers can demonstrate improved safety on our roads. The study was carried out by researchers at The University of Nottingham's Centre for Motorcycle Ergonomics & Rider Human Factors.

            Car drivers typically cause two out of the three most common motorcycle accidents in the UK, but a significant number of accidents are still caused by the riders themselves. The aim of the research was to investigate the attitudes, behaviors and skills of different types of riders according to their level of experience and training. A unique approach was designed to find out whether or not riders with advanced training, ride differently to novice or experienced riders who don't have an advanced qualification.

December 2010
 

            The 2010 AMA Voter Guide has been updated with election results for federal and gubernatorial candidates. To view the 2010 AMA Voter Guide, sign into the AMA Members Area. If you are not yet an AMA member you can join today, online or call 800-AMA-JOIN.

            The AMA urges all riders to build relationships with their lawmakers. The best way to influence motorcycle-related issues is to establish and maintain positive relationships with elected officials before you need their help.

            If you have already started working with an elected official, by volunteering on a campaign or through previous efforts, the AMA would like to hear your story. Please send your activism-in-action photos with a brief summary of your efforts, plus the candidate’s name and state, to grassroots@ama-cycle.org. Thank you to all who voted for motorcycle-friendly candidates and especially to those who volunteered!

            Source and full story: http://capwiz.com/amacycle/issues/alert/?alertid=19187516

            Washington, D.C.: Federal action to allow more ethanol in gasoline could damage motorcycles. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has agreed to allow the ethanol portion of blended gasoline to be increased from the current 10 percent to 15 percent for certain vehicles, which could pose a danger for motorcycles.

            Under the decision, E15 is now approved for use in model year 2007 and newer cars and light trucks. It isn't approved for use in any other gasoline-fueled engines. To see the EPA news release, go to http://tinyurl.com/US-EPA-E15.

            For more than three years the AMA has been on the record opposing increases in the ethanol level allowed in gasoline until studies show that an increase will not damage motorcycle or all-terrain vehicle (ATV) engines, and will not make motorcycles emit more nitrogen oxides than are allowed by the EPA.

            The AMA is a member of the Alliance for a Safe Alternative Fuels Environment (AllSAFE), a group formed to ensure that fuels containing ethanol are promoted in a thoughtful manner. AllSAFE is made up of associations that represent consumer and commercial users of ethanol blends, manufacturers of boats, vehicles, engines and equipment, and retailers who sell gasoline and ethanol-fuel blends.

            Source and full story: http://www.amadirectlink.com/news/story.asp?id=2311

            Alabama: Recently the Cheaha Trail Riders (CTR), Inc. received a $450,000 Recreational Trails Program (RTP) grant from Governor Bob Riley. This grant will help begin development of an Off-Highway Vehicle trail system within the 2,832-acre property known as the Coosa River Storage Annex Depot, located north of the city of Talladega. CTR was instrumental in assisting with the formation of the Public Park Authority of the cities of Lincoln and Talladega, who will own and develop the property.

            Anticipating the formation of the Park Authority, CTR applied for the grant with intention of transferring it. On October 30, 2010, CTR, along with Rob Grant, RTP Program Manager for Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs, officially transferred the $450,000 grant to the Public Park Authority. Development of the OHV trail systems will begin in the first quarter of 2011. CTR was also instrumental in the master design of the project, which will contain a large number of outdoor opportunities and is expected to take 10-15 years to complete.

            Source and full story: http://www.cheahatrailriders.com/talladaga.html

            Quincy, Calif.: At a recent meeting the Plumas County Board of Supervisors encouraged their Public Works Director to move forward with the creation of a county off-highway vehicle (OHV) ordinance. This will clarify which county roads within the Plumas National Forest and the Lassen National Forest are approved for recreational use by OHVs.

            The ordinance would ensure certain county roads within the national forests in Plumas County are available for OHV and over-snow vehicle use where public works staff deemed it appropriate. The Forest Service has previously claimed many county roads were not available for OHV travel and contended their inability to designate the use of these county roads has resulted in loss of OHV opportunities. However, neither the county, the California Highway Patrol or the local sheriff’s office agrees with the position, and the Board hopes the OHV ordinance will clarify the matter. The director said the process began when the Plumas National Forest conducted a public workshop on its travel management project.

            Source and full story: http://tinyurl.com/25o44fv

            Massachusetts: According to the Massachusetts Attorney General’s Office (AGO), an additional $12.1 million dollars in insurance policy overcharges is going to be returned to motorcycle riders previously insured by Arbella, Hanover, OneBeacon (aka: Homeland), National Grange Mutual (NGM), and Norfolk & Dedham (N&D). The addition of these five insurance carriers brings the total dollar amount returned to Massachusetts motorcycle riders to $33,800,000.

            Policyholders can validate their refund status by going to the AGO Motorcycle Insurance Refund Database and entering their Policy Number.

            The AGO continues to work with the remaining carriers who do business in the state and expects to announce additional agreements in the coming months.

            Motorcyclists who have had insurance policies including comprehensive and/or collision in Massachusetts since 2002 are urged to contact their insurance carrier or e-mail MyRefund@MassMotorcycle.org with your insurance carrier and contact information. All information is kept confidential and will only be shared with the carrier and AGO.

            For further details, please visit the Attorney General of Massachusetts website, http://www.mass.gov/ago/motorcycles, the Massachusetts Motorcycle Association website, http://www.massmotorcycle.org, or contact SafetyDirector@MassMotorcycle.org.

            Santa Fe, N.M.: Bureau of Land Management (BLM) calls for nominations for New Mexico’s Resource Advisory Councils (RACs). The BLM is looking for riders and others concerned with federal land management issues to serve on a RAC. In this role you will advise the BLM about issues facing your community and help influence important land management decisions. RACs are designed to include a variety of stakeholders, and are often in need of the motorized recreation enthusiast’s perspective. Many RACs have both an OHV specific as well as a “public-at-large” position, open to anyone who wishes to apply. Please consider applying for one of the recently announced openings and also encouraging your fellow riders to do the same.

            All nominations must be received no later than November 26, 2010. For additional information please contact Allison Sandoval, Bureau of Land Management, Correspondence, International, and Advisory Committee Office; (202) 912- 7434.

            Source and full story: http://capwiz.com/amacycle/issues/alert/?alertid=18919816&type=CU&show_alert=1

            Salt Lake City, Utah: Kane County is again suing the federal government in an effort to gain control of dozens more roads. The lawsuit, filed Friday in U.S. District Court in Salt Lake City, comes after the government recently surrendered title to several roads to the southern Utah County in September. The suit seeks ownership of 49 commonly used roads that cross federal lands. In September, the federal government agreed to cede the Sand Dunes, Hancock, Mill Creek and Bald Knoll roads to the county.

            The county says the roads provide access to private property, grazing allotments, mineral deposits and Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park. Among them is Hole-in-the-Wall, a dirt road that traverses Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument to the spot where Mormon pioneers blasted a wagon route down a cliff face to the Colorado River.

            Attorney Shawn Welch, who represents the county, said recent washout stranded eight people and illustrates why the county seeks control of the road. The U.S. Interior Department declined to comment on the suit.

            Source: http://connect2utah.com/search-fulltext?nxd_id=115546

            Utah: The Department of Natural Resources is seeking an Off-Highway Vehicle Program Manager. The position is located in Salt Lake City in the Parks and Recreation Division. The position is responsible for developing and managing the off-highway vehicle program for the Utah Division of State Parks and Recreation.

            More information: https://statejobs.utah.gov/JobAnnouncement.jsp?rid=22192

            Utah: The Fishlake National Forest, Beaver Ranger District is seeking a Natural Resource Specialist. Beaver, Utah is located halfway between Salt Lake City, Utah and Las Vegas, Nev., and includes the famed Paiute Trail. The position is responsible for management, oversight, and participation in a variety of district programs.

            Information about this position is available by contacting Amy Barker by phone at 435-438-2436, or by e-mail at abarker@fs.fed.us. You may apply for the position on the USA Jobs website,www.usajobs.opm.gov. Select Beaver, Utah as the duty station for the position when applying.

            Olympia, Wash.: Recreational Trails Program advisors sought. The State Recreation and Conservation Office (RCO) is looking for volunteers to serve on its Recreational Trails Program advisory committee. Specifically they have one position open for each of the following categories: a snowmobiler, a hiker, an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) recreationist and a four-wheel drive vehicle recreationist. The advisory committee evaluates grant applications from federal, local, and state agencies and non-profit organizations for projects that maintain backcountry trails. Members also assist with program policy development as needed.

            The ideal person for these positions usually has a statewide point of view, is, or has been, an active trail enthusiast, and has the resources to participate fully in the committee’s activities. Applicants may have previously served on the committee or they may be members of organizations that apply for grants reviewed by the committee.

            Appointed members will serve from February 2011 to December 2014 and attend about one weekday meeting a year. In addition, advisors spend 15 to 25 hours each year evaluating grant applications for funding. To apply, send a completed application and any support materials to the Recreation and Conservation Office no later than December 15, 2010.

            Source and full story: http://www.rco.wa.gov/grants/vol_eval_cmte.shtml

            Brussels, Belgium: European commission rejects switch-off option for motorcycle anti-lock breaking system (ABS). In a recent meeting with member states the European Commission formally presented its proposal for new type approval rules for motorcycles. In addition to introducing mandatory ABS for motorcycles above 125cc, the Commission rejected the introduction of an off-switch for ABS, ignoring the recommendations of the Federation of European Motorcyclists' Associations (FEMA), that had called for mandatory switch-off buttons for bikes equipped with ABS, since ABS is not suitable for certain riding conditions, especially with regard to riding on unpaved roads.

            The Commission, while acknowledging those concerns, considers the number of citizens living in areas with a high percentage of unpaved roads as negligible compared to the broader riding population. Indeed, the Commission said it feared that too many riders would switch off the ABS also when riding on common roads, due to “unjustified lack of faith in new technologies.” In addition to the limitation of consumer choice and increased costs for purchasing a motorcycle, FEMA is also concerned about the proposal not taking into account increased maintenance costs for ABS, and making no reference regarding durability and liability.

            Source and full story: http://www.mag-uk.org/en/newsdetail/a6792

November 2010
 

               Take an active role in the upcoming elections! With the 2010 midterm election fast approaching, the AMA has some great tools to help educate you on how your elected officials acted upon and voted on motorcycle-relevant issues. For more information on these great tools, including the 2010 AMA Voter Guide, please go to http://capwiz.com/amacycle/issues/alert/?alertid=15671521. If you are not already registered to vote, please click here and follow the four simple steps to register today. Your vote does count and you do make a difference every time you vote!

            Washington, D.C.: Presidential proclamation raises questions about the fate of riding on public land. In a proclamation declaring September 2010 as "National Wilderness Month," President Barack Obama extolled the virtues of federal Wilderness. The proclamation raises concerns indicating that the administration may press to close off more public land to responsible motorized recreation.

            The president noted in the proclamation that last year he signed the Omnibus Public Lands Management Act -- controversial legislation that permanently closed 2 million acres of public land nationwide to off-highway motorcycles, all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and all other motorized vehicles by designating the land as Wilderness.

            The legislation consisted of a daunting collection of more than 160 pieces of legislation and more than 1,300 pages of text. Lawmakers complained that they didn't even have the opportunity to review as many as 70 of the bills that were part of the legislation before being forced to vote.

            The AMA questioned the Wilderness designation, and maintained that it was inappropriate because much of the land in question failed to meet the legal definition of Wilderness established by Congress in 1964.

            Source and full story: http://www.amadirectlink.com/news/story.asp?id=2245

             Washington, D.C.: The head of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) told a congressional panel on Sept. 28 that he wants to work with Congress to promote helmet use among motorcyclists across the United States.

            Addressing the U.S. Senate Subcommittee on Consumer Protection, Product Safety and Insurance, NHTSA Administrator David Strickland said that to reduce motorcycling fatalities "the most important step we could take would be to assure that all riders wear a DOT-compliant helmet, which are 37 percent effective in reducing fatalities.”

            While the AMA supports the voluntary use of helmets as a part of a comprehensive approach to rider safety including appropriate riding gear, proper licensing, and rider training, the association is disappointed that Administrator Strickland didn’t focus any of his remarks on leading the NHTSA toward actually reducing the likelihood of a crash from occurring in the first place.

            The AMA supports states' rights to determine their helmet policies free from the threat of federal sanctions. Congress affirmed this right as recently as 1995 in the National Highway System Act, when lawmakers removed federal penalties placed on states that didn't have mandatory helmet laws.

            This is a sentiment supported by U.S. Rep. Jim Sensenbrenner (R-Wis.) and many of his congressional colleagues through recently introduced H. Res. 1498: Supporting Efforts to Retain the Ban on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's (NHTSA) Ability to Lobby State Legislators Using Federal Tax Dollars and Urging the NHTSA to Focus on Crash Prevention and Rider Education and Training.

            To urge your U.S. representative to support H. Res. 1498, and to ask your U.S. Senators to prevent the NHTSA from focusing on federal helmet-mandate legislation and, instead, employ proven strategies to reduce motorcycle crashes from occurring in the first place, go to AmericanMotorcyclist.com > Rights > Issues & Legislation, then enter your zip code in the "Find your Officials" box.

            A prewritten e-mail is available for you to send to your U.S. senators immediately by following the "Take Action" option and entering your information.

            Source and full story: http://www.amadirectlink.com/news/story.asp?id=2278

             California: On Sept. 28, Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger signed into law Senate Bill 435, sponsored by Sen. Fran Pavley (D-Agoura Hills). While motorcycle manufacturers have been complying with the federal law since it was effective in 1983, the new law now makes it a state crime to operate any motorcycle registered in the state that was built on or after Jan. 1, 2013, that doesn't have a federal Environmental Protection Agency exhaust system sound emissions label.

            In addition, the law requires aftermarket exhaust systems made on or after Jan. 1, 2013, to display the EPA sound emissions label, and therefore applies to individuals who seek to replace the exhaust system on affected streetbikes.

            Violators will face fines of up to $100 for a first offense and up to $250 for subsequent offenses. Judges however will have the discretion to dismiss the fine for first-time offenders if the violation is corrected. Also, a violation will be considered a secondary offense, meaning a police officer can't stop a motorcyclist solely because the officer believes the motorcyclist is breaking the sound emissions label law.

                     Source and full story: http://www.amadirectlink.com/news/story.asp?id=2279

            Boise, Idaho: Officials with the Idaho Off-Highway Vehicle Public Outreach Campaign remind people who use ATVs or motorbikes during hunting season to stay on designated trails and to ensure the trails they plan to ride are open.

            The Boise, Payette, Sawtooth, Caribou-Targhee and Salmon-Challis national forests have completed travel management plans and have published Motor Vehicle Use Maps (MVUM’s) to indicate what trails and roads are open or closed during the fall hunting seasons. The Nez Perce, Clearwater and Panhandle national forests are still working on travel management plans before they can publish final MVUM’s.

            BLM officials encourage hunters to check these maps to see if the trails or roads they plan to use are open or closed. The maps are available online and at BLM district offices.

            Officials recommend that hunters check out 10 hunting tips on StayOnTrails.com to make sure they have a safe and legal hunting season. Idaho Fish and Game also has a brochure that reviews motor vehicle and ATV regulations pertinent to hunting.

            Source and full story: http://www.magicvalley.com/lifestyles/recreation/article_82486f06-cc30-11df-82a9-001cc4c002e0.html

            Illinois: The state Supreme Court has agreed to hear an appeal by A.B.A.T.E. of Illinois that will determine the extent to which the Cycle Rider Safety Training (CRST) Fund is protected from fund “sweeps” that would use money in that Fund for non-motorcycle related purposes.
             Over a year ago, Sangamon County Circuit Clerk Leo Zappa ruled that the General Assembly failed to create a trust with the CRST Fund because not all Common Law (court made law) requirements were met. Last year, the 4th District of the Illinois Appellate Court ruled that the CRST Fund was a trust, but that the General Assembly could confiscate funds outside the State Treasury and allow that money to be used for any purpose the Governor desired.
            The desired goal is for the Illinois Supreme Court to reject both rulings and establish that the CRST Fund has only one purpose: to educate motorcycle riders.
            Source: George Tinkham, A.B.A.T.E. of Illinois State Legislative Coordinator, http://www.abate-il.org

             Massachusetts: The Massachusetts Motorcycle Association (MMA) is pleased to announce that the state Attorney General’s Office (AGO) has released a website which will allow motorcycle owners to query whether they are due a refund from their insurance carrier. The AGO “Motorcycle Insurance Refund Lookup” is available online here: http://www.motorcycle.ago.state.ma.us/motorcycle_insurance/process_request.action. The website represents only those calculations which have been completed by the AGO and the insurance companies. One important note is that the insurance policy number must be entered exactly as it’s found on the policy.
            This announcement by the AGO is part of a larger announcement concerning the Safety Insurance Refund process having been started: http://www.mass.gov/pageID=cagopressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Cago&b=pressrelease&f=2010_09_28_safety_insurance_settlment&csid=Cago
            This process was recently announced by the MMA, the text of which can be found here: http://www.massmotorcycle.org/content.aspx?page_id=5&club_id=769540&item_id=14376
            The AGO agreements with the insurance carriers represent average refunds to consumers around $300 with some consumers receiving significantly more. Motorcyclists who’ve had insurance policies including comprehensive and/or collision in Massachusetts since 2002 are urged to contact their insurance carrier or email MyRefund@MassMotorcycle.org with your insurance carrier and contact information (if relocated, please include past contact information). All information is kept confidential and will only be shared with the carrier and AGO.

             For further details, please visit http://www.mass.gov/ago/motorcycles, http://www.massmotorcycle.org or contact SafetyDirector@MassMotorcycle.org.

             Great Falls, Mont.: The Recreational Off-Highway Vehicle Association (ROHVA) has launched the beta version of its new Recreational Off-Highway Vehicle (ROV) e-course. Also known as Side by Sides and UTVs, this e-course is the first formalized, educational resource for the growing community of ROV enthusiasts, but is not a “learn to drive” course. The two-hour on-line safety course is free, interactive and available on the ROHVA website at www.rohva.org.

            Brooklyn, N.Y.: Police are cracking down on motorcyclists parking on sidewalks, a practice that is illegal but has escaped enforcement in the past. Riders say sidewalk parking also helps keep their bikes from getting clipped by cars or stolen from areas where they cannot be chained to a tree. The ticket for parking on the sidewalk costs $115.

            Source: http://brooklynpaper.com/stories/33/40/br_motorcyclesidewalkcrack_2010_09_27_bk.html?comm=1

                        Nelsonville, Ohio: Purchasing a trail permit for the Wayne National Forest is now just a click away. Effective immediately, the Wayne National Forest is offering secure on-line purchasing of its trail permits, trail permit gift certificates, and the Interagency Annual Pass.

                     Visitors will continue to be able to purchase trail permits at any Forest office location or any of the twenty-five local participating vendors in southeast and central Ohio. A complete list of locations is available on the Forest website. The Interagency Annual Pass, Senior, and Access Pass also remain available at Forest office locations.        

            In addition, the Forest is now offering gift certificates as a new product this year. They may be purchased by anyone wishing to give trail permits as gifts.

            For more information, or to order permits, passes, and gift certificates, visit www.fs.usda.gov/wayne or contact the Wayne National Forest Offices (Headquarters and Athens Unit), 740-753-0101, (Marietta Unit) 740-373-9055, or (Ironton Unit) 740-534 6500.            Source and full story: http://www.amadirectlink.com/news/story.asp?id=2255

            Cincinnati, Ohio: The city has just announced plans to create more parking spaces for scooters and motorcycles. According to the director of Transportation and Engineering, demand for these spaces is high, particularly near Fountain Square. His department installed the first five new spaces in October 2008, and in the future will add more spaces when streets or sidewalks are being redone in order to help keep costs low. Plans currently include new spaces at the following locations: McFarland Avenue at Elm Street, near the Enquirer building; East Central Parkway near the Coffee Emporium; and on Main Street at Gano Alley.

                         Source: http://news.cincinnati.com/article/20100922/NEWS0108/9230308/City-OKs-more-scooter-spots-downtown

October 2010

            AMA grant supports mission of ASMI: A recent grant to Accident Scene Management, Inc. (ASMI) from the AMA further underscores the association’s support of motorcyclists helping motorcyclists. Founded and led by Vicki Roberts-Sanfelipo, RN/EMT, ASMI offers bystander assistance programs to enhance the survival rate and reduce the severity of injuries for crash-involved vehicle operators, especially motorcyclists. With a focus on the assessment and treatment of the injured as well as crash scene management, program graduates are trained to provide a vital link in the survival chain of events. For more information on course offerings and ways to promote safer motorcycling, visit http://www.accidentscene.org.

            AMA seeks suspension of grant program that targets motorcyclists with checkpoints. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is offering law enforcement agencies hundreds of thousands of dollars to set up checkpoints that target only motorcyclists, and the AMA wants to know why. The AMA has asked the agency to suspend the grant program until questions raised by the motorcycling community have been answered.

            Under its Motorcycle Law Enforcement Demonstration grant program, the NHTSA will award up to $350,000 in total to be divided among as many as five law enforcement agencies to set up traffic checkpoints that target motorcyclists.

            The demonstration program is modeled after a controversial program in New York where the state police set up a series of checkpoints that targeted only motorcyclists, raising the ire of the AMA and motorcycling community. In 2008, for example, New York State Police announced plans to set up 15 checkpoints near motorcycling events that summer.

            The AMA questioned the potential discriminatory and legal nature of the program and sent a list of questions for clarification to the New York State Police. To date, New York authorities have not responded.

            The AMA urges all riders to contact NHTSA Administrator David Strickland and ask that the discriminatory Motorcycle Law Enforcement Demonstration grant program be suspended until questions raised by the motorcycling community are resolved. More details on the grant, the questions asked by the AMA and a pre-written letter to send to Strickland can be found here.

            California: The California senate passed SB 435, known as the "motorcycle exhaust bill," which would require stock exhaust on all model year 2013 and newer motorcycles. The bill is now on Governor Schwarzenegger’s desk for his signature. Please urge the governor to veto SB 435 today. To view the AMA’s alert and to contact the governor, click here: Action needed on motorcycle exhaust bill (SB 435).

            One of the country’s most popular off-highway vehicle (OHV) riding areas could soon see nearly 40,000 acres returned to the OHV ledger, thanks to a new plan developed by the federal Bureau of Land Management (BLM). In April, the BLM released a draft Recreation Area Management Plan (RAMP) for the 200,000-acre Imperial Sand Dunes Recreation Area, popularly known as Glamis because of its proximity to that town in the far southeastern corner of California.

            The public comment period for the RAMP ended June 23. Federal officials are now reviewing the comments, and the "Preferred Alternative"—that is, the plan that the BLM intends to follow that adds about 40,000 more acres for off-highway riding—is likely to be adopted unless the public-comment process points out a legitimate flaw in the BLM’s planning. However, it is unknown when the new BLM plan will go into effect.

            More details, including the organizations that came together to make the new plan happen, can be found by visiting the AMA Website here.

            Colorado: In August, the Colorado Off-Highway Vehicle Coalition (COHVCO) led a number of partnering organizations and individuals in suing the Colorado Board of Parks and Outdoor Recreation. COHVCO wants a state court to set aside a recent parks board action that it says inappropriately diverted OHV user fees to activities other than motorized recreation. The lawsuit also alleges that the parks board met in secret three times – a violation of the state’s sunshine law. To learn more see the COHVCO website at www.cohvco.org.

            Illinois: On July 22, the governor signed into law House Bill 4779, sponsored by Rep. Donald L. Moffitt (R- Oneida), which enables a court to require a person to pay an additional criminal penalty that shall be distributed to a public agency that provided an emergency response related to the person's violation for reckless driving or speeding in excess of 40 mph over the posted limit. The criminal penalty may not exceed $100 per public agency for each emergency response provided for a first violation, and may not exceed $500 per public agency for each emergency response provided for a second or subsequent violation.

            On July 26, the governor signed into law Senate Bill 3347, sponsored by Sen. Heather Steans (D-Chicago), which bans the sale, distribution or use of vehicle wheel weights or new vehicles equipped with wheel weights containing mercury or more than 0.1 percent lead by weight.

            Indianapolis, Ind.: A tragic crash on Aug. 6 in Indianapolis in which an on-duty police officer smashed into the rear of two motorcycles -- killing one motorcyclist and critically injuring two others -- has captured the attention of motorcyclists around the nation. After initially being arrested with seven felony charges, including driving under the influence, causing death, the alcohol-related charges were dropped after a judge ruled the proper procedures weren’t followed.

            The FBI has now joined the investigation and details into additional incidents involving police officers and problematic behavior have surfaced. The Indianapolis Metro police are reviewing their policies while a judge considers a motion for change of venue in the case of the officer involved in the crash on Aug. 6.

            For a detailed timeline and additional background information on the case, please visit the AMA website by clicking here.

            North Hampton, N.H.: A town ordinance limiting motorcycle noise levels is unenforceable, according to legal counsel sought by Police Chief Brian Page. North Hampton voters approved an ordinance earlier this year that would require EPA labels on motorcycle exhaust. This is in direct contrast to the state law of New Hampshire that sets a limit of 106 decibels. Legal briefs are expected to be filed on October 7, 2010 for further action in the case.

            Source: http://m.seacoastonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20100907/NEWS/9070301/-1/WAP06&template=wapart&m_section=

            Lancaster, Penn.: A taxi driver who killed five motorcyclists and injured one after hitting nearly 100 mph and swerving into oncoming traffic has been charged with five counts of vehicular homicide. The man, a 65-year old diabetic, argued that he did not eat the day of the crash and suffered complications of his medical condition. The D.A., Craig Stedman, determined the driver knew the risks he was taking and chose to ignore them.

             “We concluded that, no doubt, he made a conscious and reckless decision and reckless disregard to maintain his medical condition which led to these terrible results,” said Stedman. The driver’s bail is set at $50,000 and, if released, will not be allowed to drive. He is facing a maximum penalty of 39 years in prison.

            Source: http://www.whptv.com/news/local/story/Taxi-driver-charged-in-deadly-June-motorcycle/XXp7e1vM7EaM1B81dOc51g.cspx

            Pennsylvania: Six thousand acres of abandoned coal lands in Northumberland County are being considered for a multiuse public park. Proposed recreation opportunities at the park would include OHV trails, hiking trails, primitive and full service camping areas, horseback trails, biking areas, hunting access and winter access for snowmobiles and cross-country skiing. The project is still in the planning phase and proponents are requesting assistance. You can sign an online petition supporting the proposed park at http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/northumberlandohvpark/.

            West Vancouver, Canada: Officials in one Canadian town have developed a new and disturbing way to slow drivers down. Nicknamed “Pavement Patty,” a 2-D image of a young girl chasing after a ball provides the illusion that, as a vehicle approaches, they are driving toward a child in the street. Describing it as the “speed bump of the future”, the image appears to rise up out of the pavement to a full 3-D view around 100 feet. The graphic is in place near a local elementary school in order to slow drivers to the 18 mph speed limit. No reports are available on the effectiveness of the image just yet.

            Video of “Pavement Patty” in action is available through NBC news at: http://www.nbc.com/news-sports/msnbc-video/hologram-of-girl-used-as-high-tech-speed-bump/.
 

September 2010


            Groups opposing an ethanol percentage increase in gasoline have launched a campaign calling for more testing. Environmental and industry groups that frequently oppose each other on a broad range of policy issues are launching a joint campaign calling on Congress to require thorough and objective scientific testing before allowing an increase in the amount of ethanol in gasoline.
            Raising strong concerns about consumer safety and environmental protection, the groups have joined forces to sponsor an ad with the tagline "Say NO to untested E15" as part of an effort to persuade Congress and the Environmental Protection Agency to reject calls by some in the ethanol industry to allow the amount of ethanol in gasoline to increase by 50 percent. The ads began running on July 22.
            Some 36 groups have also signed a letter that went to the majority and minority leaders of the U.S. Senate urging opposition to any amendment to the coming energy bill that would authorize the sale of gasoline with more than 10 percent ethanol.
            Source and full story: http://www.amadirectlink.com/news/story.asp?id=2157


            Lake Havasu City, AZ: The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Lake Havasu Field Office recently announced a public open house on August 18, 2010, from 5:00 to 8:00 pm. The open house will be held at the Lake Havasu City Parks and Recreation Department Aquatic Center, to discuss the Havasu Travel Management Plan. The planning area includes public lands in the Lake Havasu Field Office south of I-40, extending to lands north of the Bill Williams River.

            The open house will also mark the start of the public scoping period for the Havasu Travel Management Plan and Environmental Assessment. The assessment will evaluate all of the motorized and non-motorized routes of travel and their affected resources in the current inventory of existing routes in the study area and will include three transportation route network alternatives, designating each route as open, limited or closed. Written comments for consideration during the assessment preparation must be received by the BLM on Friday, September 17, 2010.

            Comments may also be faxed to (928) 505-1208 or emailed to ASOWEB_AZ@blm.gov.

            Copies of the maps will be available for review online at the Lake Havasu Field Office website at http://www.blm.gov/az/st/en/fo/lake_havasu_field.html or by contacting Myron McCoy, Outdoor Recreation Planner at the BLM Lake Havasu Field Office.


            Redding, CA: your help is needed to develop a new OHV area in northern California. Forest Service managers on the Shasta-Trinity National Forests (STNF) want to provide appropriate and sustainable motorized recreation opportunities for the riding public. The goal is to develop a conceptual route plan to provide a variety of riding difficulties, challenges, and experiences in a well-planned and managed area, consisting of designated roads, trails and play areas along with supporting safety and infrastructure needs. For more information and volunteer opportunities riders are encouraged to contact Sylvia Milligan at smilligan4732@sbcglobal.net or by phone at (530) 949-6743.


            Sacramento, CA: California lawmakers continue to back EPA label requirement for riders of new motorcycles. On August 4th, the Assembly Committee on Appropriations voted 11-5 to approve an amended version of Senate Bill 435, introduced by Sen. Fran Pavley (D-Oxnard-Los Angeles). This bill would make it illegal to ride a motorcycle on the road built on, or after, Jan. 1, 2013, that doesn't display a federal Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) label certifying the exhaust system meets sound emissions standards.
            The AMA has long maintained a position of strong opposition to excessive motorcycle sound. However, the Association has been, and remains, opposed to this legislation. The only objective way to determine whether a motorcycle complies with sound laws is for properly trained personnel to conduct sound level tests using calibrated meters and an agreed-upon testing procedure. To that end the AMA has developed model legislation for use by cities and states seeking a simple, consistent and economical way to deal with sound complaints related to on-highway motorcycles within the larger context of excessive sound from all sources. The model legislation offers an objective method to evaluate motorcycle sound based on the Society of Automotive Engineers' (SAE) J2825 standard.


            Lake County, IL: Lora Hunt, the fingernail-painting driver who crashed into motorcyclist Anita Zaffke in a Chicago suburb in 2009 and killed her was sentenced to 18 months of nighttime-only imprisonment. Hunt ignited outrage within the motorcycling community when she admitted to police that she was painting her fingernails at the time of the crash. During her jail sentence, Hunt, who is a nurse, will be allowed to work during the day as well as go to counseling sessions. The Morris, Ill., resident must also perform 240 hours of community service and spend 30 months on probation.
            After the fatal crash, Greg Zaffke II of Wauconda, Ill., the victim's son, began painting his fingernails black as a reminder to anyone he meets of his mother's death. He also formed the Black Nail Brigade Foundation Against Distracted Driving (www.BlackNailBrigade.org) to publicize the dangers of distracted driving, push for legislation to impose appropriate penalties for distracted drivers who seriously injure or kill others and to boost awareness to share the road.
            Source and full story: http://www.amadirectlink.com/news/story.asp?id=2136


            Springfield, IL: Signed into law on July 27th by Governor Pat Quinn, House Bill 4580, sponsored by Rep. William Black (R-Danville), requires the Secretary of State to immediately revoke the license, permit, or driving privileges of any driver upon receiving a report of the driver's conviction of any offense against any provision in the Illinois Vehicle Code, or any local ordinance, regulating the movement of traffic, when that offense was the proximate cause of the death of any person.


            Springfield, IL: On July 22, Governor Pat Quinn signed into law House Bill 4779, sponsored by Rep. Donald L. Moffitt (R- Oneida), which enables a court to require a person to pay an additional criminal penalty that shall be distributed to a public agency that provided an emergency response related to the person's violation for reckless driving or speeding in excess of 40 mph over the posted limit. The criminal penalty may not exceed $100 per public agency for each emergency response provided for a first violation, and may not exceed $500 per public agency for each emergency response provided for a second or subsequent violation.


            Fruitland, MD: Recently a proposal to open an OHV park was presented to the city council. The plan would turn thirteen acres of land into a place supporters say will benefit the local community. The park would consist of three separate tracks accessible to four-wheelers, dune buggies and dirt bikes.
            Organizers say the property is an ideal location because the topography of the terrain and surrounding trees will act as a barrier that will deflect any sound away from the surrounding area. A live demonstration for the proposed park is planned for August 26.
             Source and full story: http://www.wmdt.com/news-archive.aspx?item=8796


            Aitkin, MN: A public open house to provide information about Phase II of the Northwoods Regional ATV Trail System will be held on August 24 at the Quadna Mountain Resort, near Hill City. The Northwoods Regional ATV Trail System includes the development of an extensive, first-rate ATV/OHV trail in Aitkin and Itasca counties. The trail is designed to be environmentally sensitive, economically beneficial, and community supported. The complete project will include construction of at least 70 miles of new trail.
            Planning for system began in 2007 with initial Phase I routes opening in 2010. The planning process for the Phase II routes will include public meetings, direction from a 19-member local oversight committee and completion of an Environmental Assessment Worksheet.
            The Phase II routes being explored include proposed ATV trail routes connecting the North Soo Line to the Blind Lake and Rabey Line trails and the Alborn Trail to the Rabey Line in northern Aitkin County and southern Itasca County.
            Source: http://www.brainerddispatch.com/stories/080610/new_20100806014.shtml


            Jackson, MS: House Bill Senate Bill 2596, sponsored by Sen. Gray Tollison (D-Oxford), prohibits the use of any motor vehicle or motorcycle equipped with nitrous oxide on any street or highway unless the system is rendered inoperative by means of disconnecting the nitrous oxide feed line from the engine or removing the nitrous oxide canister from the motor vehicle or motorcycle. Signed by Governor Haley Barbour, the bill became effective July 1, 2010.


            Concord, NH: House Bill 1481, sponsored by Rep. John A. Graham (R-Bedford) and signed into law by Governor John Lynch on July 6, requires all turnpike system tolls collected to be used exclusively for purposes of the operating expenses, construction, reconstruction, and maintenance of the New Hampshire turnpike system. It also prohibits the transfer of those funds for any other purpose.


            Trenton, NJ: Signed into law June 30 by Governor Chris Christie, Senate Bill 2090, sponsored by Sen. Andrew R Ciesla (R-Brick), exempts motorcycles from the motor vehicle inspection requirements currently imposed by law. The bill took effect on July 1, 2010.


            Columbus, OH: In response to a June 2 Ohio Supreme Court ruling that permits law enforcement officers to issue speeding citations based on an "unaided visual estimation of a vehicle's speed," three bills have been introduced. State senators Tim Grendell (R-Chesterland) and Capri Cafaro (D-Hubbard) have introduced Senate Bill 280, while House Bill 552, sponsored by Reps. Robert Hagan (D-Youngstown) and Ronald Gerberry (D-Austintown), and House Bill 553, sponsored by Rep. Barbara Sears (D-Sylvania), have been introduced in the House. The bills would prohibit anyone from being arrested, charged, or convicted of a speeding violation based on a peace officer's unaided visual estimation of the speed of a motor vehicle, trackless trolley, or streetcar.


            Columbus, OH: House Bill 560, sponsored by Rep. Deborah Newcomb (D-Conneaut), would eliminate the $20 late fee for motor vehicle registrations, commercial driver's licenses, driver's licenses, and motorcycle endorsements established by the biennial transportation appropriations act of the 128th General Assembly and establishes a refund procedure for persons who paid the late fee.

August 2010
 

            Washington, D.C.: Support House resolution directed at Interior Department to force disclosure of documents relating to National Monument plan.
            The Chairman of the U.S. House Committee on Natural Resources had a markup (votes were taken) on June 16, 2010 to consider H. Res. 1406, introduced by Representatives Doc Hastings (R-Wash.) and Rob Bishop (R-Utah). This resolution of inquiry is aimed at requiring the Secretary of the Department of the Interior (DOI) to turn over to the U.S. House of Representatives all documents related to potential National Monument designations.
            The American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) sent a letter to Speaker Nancy Pelosi urging the U.S. House of Representatives to consider H. Res. 1406 as soon as possible. In addition to the letter to Speaker Pelosi, the AMA also sent a letter on June 29 to every member of Congress urging them to support H. Res. 1406.

            This resolution needs the support of the U.S. House of Representatives so the American people will know exactly what plans are being discussed regarding responsible motorized recreation on millions of acres of land. For this reason, the AMA is urging all members of Congress to cosponsor and vote yes on H. Res. 1406. The AMA will be scoring resolution cosponsors and this vote for the 111th Congress. To see if your Representative is a cosponsor, click here.

            Source and full story: http://www.amadirectlink.com/news/story.asp?id=2035

            Washington, D.C.: Lawmakers want federal traffic safety agency to focus on crash prevention. U.S. Rep. Jim Sensenbrenner (R-Wis.) has introduced a resolution urging the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to concentrate on motorcycle crash prevention and rider education instead of lobbying state lawmakers to enact mandatory helmet laws.
            The resolution is in response to a statement made by NHTSA Administrator David Strickland in May reemphasizing Congressional testimony he gave in March when he stated that the core component of NHTSA's motorcycle safety plan is to increase helmet use and "anything the Congress does that would support the movement of riders into helmets would be efficacious of safety."
            On April 2, AMA Senior Vice President for Government Relations Ed Moreland sought a clarification of Strickland's comments. The letter can be read here: AmericanMotorcyclist.com/legisltn/documents/Strickland_Olver_Appropriations_3-25-10.pdf. Strickland's response can be read here: AmericanMotorcyclist.com/legisltn/documents/Strickland_Response_Helmet_5-24-10.pdf.
            The resolution -- H. Res. 1498, which was introduced on July 1 -- supports efforts to retain a federal ban on the agency from using taxpayer dollars to lobby state and local legislators. Reps. Denny Rehberg (R-Mont.), Doug Lamborn (R-Colo.), Paul Ryan (R-Wis.) and Tom Petri (R-Wis.) co-sponsored the measure.

            Source and full story: http://www.amadirectlink.com/news/story.asp?id=2079

            Washington, DC: EPA halts import of up to 200,000 small recreational vehicles. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) withdrew its approval of the import and sale of up to 200,000 gas-powered off-road motorcycles and all-terrain vehicles. The agency suspects that tailpipe emissions information was either incomplete or falsified. This is the first time EPA has voided certificates of conformity for these types of vehicles and only the second time the agency has done so for any type of vehicle. EPA is considering an enforcement action under the Clean Air Act, which could lead to significant financial penalties against the businesses that manufactured or imported these types of recreational vehicles.

            As a result of a lengthy investigation, EPA is alleging that the applications for the certificates contained false or incomplete information. EPA issued the certificates in 2006 and 2007 to the U.S. counterparts of four of China's largest manufacturers of these types of vehicles: Hensim USA (City of Industry, Calif.), Loncin USA (Hayward, Calif.), Peace Industry Group (Norcross, Ga.), and Seaseng (Pomona, Calif.). The certificates were issued based on applications compiled by their consultant, MotorScience Enterprise. EPA believes MotorScience Enterprise intentionally submitted false or incomplete emissions information.

            The action impacts the companies that manufactured and imported these vehicles only. A consumer who owns a model that was covered by these voided certificates is not responsible for these companies' wrongdoing and can continue to use the vehicle.

            Source: http://epa.gov/otaq/recveh.htm.

            Washington, DC: AMA submits comments to the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) on the reclassification of motorcycles in the Guide to Reporting Highway Statistics. The AMA urged FHWA to convene a panel of experts, including riders, to review the current federal definition of a motorcycle. To view comments submitted by the AMA and others please go to: http://tinyurl.com/FHWA-Comments

            Sacramento, CA: California lawmakers back EPA label requirement for riders of new motorcycles. On June 28, the Assembly Committee on Transportation voted 8-4 to approve Senate Bill 435, introduced by Sen. Fran Pavley (D-Oxnard-Los Angeles), which would make it illegal to ride a motorcycle on the road built on, or after, Jan. 1, 2011, that doesn't display a federal Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) label certifying the exhaust system meets sound emissions standards.
            The AMA has long maintained a position of strong opposition to excessive motorcycle sound. However, the Association has been, and remains, opposed to this legislation. The only objective way to determine whether a motorcycle complies with sound laws is for properly trained personnel to conduct sound level tests using calibrated meters and an agreed-upon testing procedure. To that end the AMA has developed model legislation for use by cities and states seeking a simple, consistent and economical way to deal with sound complaints related to on-highway motorcycles within the larger context of excessive sound from all sources. The model legislation offers an objective method to evaluate motorcycle sound based on the Society of Automotive Engineers' (SAE) J2825 standard.

            Source and full story: http://www.amadirectlink.com/news/story.asp?id=2072

            Connecticut: Signed into law by Governor M. Jodi Rell, Senate Bill 407 requires all applicants who have not held a motorcycle endorsement within the preceding two years to present proof of satisfactory completion of a novice motorcycle-training course recognized by the Commissioner of Motor Vehicles. The new law takes effect January 1, 2011.

            Florida: House Bill 971, sponsored by Rep. Gary Aubuchon (R-Cape Coral)changes the definition of a motorcycle to exclude fully enclosed, three-wheeled vehicles that meet certain requirements. Governor Charlie Crist signed the bill into law on June 4^th.

            Illinois: A.B.A.T.E. of Illinois, working through A.B.A.T.E. Legal Services, has filed with the Illinois Supreme Court for a ruling on the Cycle Rider Safety Training Fund. The Illinois program was one of several raided by state governments looking to close budget deficits with moneys from dedicated sources. One issue in the filing is whether the CRST is protected by an irrevocable trust.
            Source: http://www.abate-il.org

            Mississippi: House Bill Senate Bill 2596, sponsored by Sen. Gray Tollison (D-Oxford), prohibits the use of any motor vehicle or motorcycle equipped with nitrous oxide on any street or highway unless the system is rendered inoperative by means of disconnecting the nitrous oxide feed line from the engine or removing the nitrous oxide canister from the motor vehicle or motorcycle. Signed by Governor Haley Barbour, the bill became effective July 1, 2010.

            Montana: Recently the U.S. District Court for the District of Montana remanded the Travel Plan for the Little Belt, Castle, and North Half Crazy Mountains Final Environmental Impact Statement and Record of Decision to the Lewis and Clark National Forest and directed the Forest to reopen certain motorized routes and to restore dispersed camping on over 80,000 acres. Previously, the Court had ruled that the 2007 Travel Management Plan issued by the Lewis and Clark National Forest in Montana violated the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and the Montana Wilderness Study Act (MWSA).

            The plan was originally developed in an effort to implement the national Travel Management Rule finalized by the U.S. Forest Service in November 2005, which requires each National Forest to undergo processes to designate roads, trails, and areas that are open to motor vehicles.

            This lawsuit was filed by the Russell Country Sportsmen, Montana Trail Vehicle Riders Association, Great Falls Trail Bike Riders Association, Great Falls Snowmobile Club, Meagher County Little Belters, Treasure State Alliance, Motorcycle Industry Council, Specialty Vehicle Institute of America and BlueRibbon Coalition. 

            Source and full story: http://www.amadirectlink.com/news/story.asp?id=2084

            New Hampshire: Efforts to protect the Motorcycle Riders Training Program by State Senator Bob LeTourneau failed when the Senate defeated his amendment to protect $100,000 of the nearly $300,000 in the program's fund. Facing a $295 million budget deficit, the Senate voted down the amendment along party lines. Senator LeTourneau pointed out New Hampshire motorcyclists entrusted the state with license and registration fees to support the program;it is now uncertain now whether all classes planned for the riding season will be held. Video of Senator LeTourneau is available at http://origin.peg.tv/pegtv_player?id=T00975&video=9199

            Pickerington, OH: AMA supports EPA decision to delay ruling on increased ethanol in gasoline. The AMA concurs with the decision announced by the federal Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on June 17 to delay its ruling on whether to allow the ethanol portion of blended gasoline to be increased from the current 10 percent to 15 percent.

            Currently, pump gasoline in the United States can contain up to 10 percent ethanol, which is used to increase octane, reduce carbon monoxide emissions and provide an alternative to petroleum-based fuels. Motorcycle manufacturers currently only certify their engines to run on fuels that have a 10 percent or less blend.

            Increasing the percentage of ethanol could have a negative impact on motorcycle engines, since burning ethanol creates more heat than conventional gasoline. That has the potential to damage air-cooled motorcycle engines.

            Also, fuel systems on bikes may be susceptible to corrosive effects of higher concentrations of ethanol in gas. And while ethanol helps reduce carbon monoxide levels in engine exhaust, it can also increase the levels of oxides of nitrogen, one of the components of smog.

            The AMA is a member of AllSAFE, the Alliance for a Safe Alternative Fuels Environment, a group formed to ensure that fuels containing ethanol are promoted in a thoughtful manner. AllSAFE is made up of associations that represent consumer and commercial users of ethanol blends, manufacturers of boats, vehicles, engines and equipment, and retailers who sell gasoline and ethanol-fuel blends.

            Source and full story: http://www.amadirectlink.com/news/story.asp?id=2058

            Pennsylvania: Effective June 26, Pennsylvania motorcyclists who pass the motorcycle skills evaluation on a 3-wheeled motorcycle will receive a Class M, motorcycle driver's license with a "9" restriction. Holders of such a license will be restricted to 3-wheeled motorcycles only.  This new rule was revealed in a letter dated June 25 from PENNDOT to A.B.A.T.E. of Pennsylvania

July 2010

            House Natural Resources Committee Ranking Member Doc Hastings (WA-04) and Subcommittee on National Parks, Forests and Public Lands Ranking Member Rob Bishop (UT-01) introduced a second Resolution of Inquiry (H. Res. 1406) seeking the missing pages of an internal Department of Interior (DOI) memo detailing plans to potentially designate 13 million acres as National Monuments. Hastings and Bishop introduced a similar resolution in April that was effectively blocked when Committee Democrats voted against passing it out of Committee with a favorable recommendation.

            Despite repeated requests for documents, DOI has refused to release a complete copy of the "Internal Memo." To date, only pages numbered 15 to 21 have been revealed. DOI continues to withhold pages 1-14 and pages 21 and higher.

            Hastings and Bishop called on Secretary Salazar to bring the missing pages of the "Internal Memo" when he testified before the Natural Resources Committee on Wednesday. When Bishop asked about the documents at the hearing, Deputy Secretary David Hayes confirmed that they did not bring them.

            House rules provide that the Democrat Majority on the Committee has 14 legislative days to report the Resolution of Inquiry or it becomes eligible to be brought to the Floor of the House of Representatives for a vote as a Privileged Resolution.

            Source: http://republicans.resourcescommittee.house.gov/News/DocumentSingle.aspx?DocumentID=187602

            The Congressional Motorcycle Safety Caucus continues to expand in numbers. Congressman Walter B. Jones, from North Carolina's Third Congressional District, joined the bipartisan caucus in early June of this year.

            Co-chaired by Congressman Michael Burgess (TX-26) and Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords (AZ-08), the CMSC is made up of Representatives that are motorcyclists, motorcycle enthusiasts and have a deep interest in the issues of the riders in their districts. It is influential in connecting the rest of Congress with the needs of motorcyclists through legislation, promotion of May as Motorcycle Awareness Month and events on Ride-to-Work Day.

            The addition of Congressman Jones brings membership to just over a dozen Representatives from multiple areas of the country and both sides of the aisle. If you are interested in having your Member of Congress join the CMSC, you can contact them directly using the information available on the Rights section of the AMA website. Simply go to www.AmericanMotorcyclist.com, click on Rights > Issues and Legislation and enter your Zip code in the box on the right.

            Forest Service announces fee waiver dates. Forest Service Chief Tom Tidwell announced today that the Forest Service would offer two fee- waiver weekends during the summer of 2010, in addition to other annual fee- waiver events at standard amenity fee sites. The first fee- waiver weekend will be June 5-6. These fee waivers will be offered in cooperation with other federal agencies under the Federal Lands Recreation Enhancement Act (REA).

            "The Forest Service is working to ensure as many visitors as possible have the opportunity to experience the great outdoors and take advantage of the many recreational activities national forests have to offer," said Tidwell. "By waiving fees, everyone will have the opportunity to enjoy the wonder and rejuvenation of recreation on national forests."

            The Fee- Waiver dates for 2010 are as follows:

            -  National Trails Day - June 5-6, - fees will be waived for Saturday and Sunday.

            -  Back-to-School Season - Aug.14-15, - fees will be waived for Saturday and Sunday.

            -  National Public Lands Day - Sept 25, 2010 -This fee waiver is offered every year.

            -  Veterans' Day - Nov. 11, 2010 - This fee waiver is offered every year.

            The Forest Service operates about 17,000 recreation sites. Of those sites, approximately 6,000 require a fee at recreation sites, which provide visitor services, needed maintenance and repairs, and recreational facilities and services.

            The mission of the USDA Forest Service is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of the Nation's forests and grasslands to meet the needs of present and future generations. The Agency manages 193 million acres of public land and is the largest forestry research organization in the world.

            Source: http://www.fs.fed.us/news/2010/releases/06/waiver.shtml

            Arizona: House Bill 2475, sponsored by Rep. Jerry Weiers (R-Glendale), would permit motorcyclists in Maricopa County to lane split during 2011. Unanimously passed by the House and with a large majority in the Senate, the bill was sent to Governor Jan Brewer for consideration. Brewer vetoed the bill on May 11; read her veto letter at http://www.azleg.gov/govlettr/49leg/2R/HB2475.pdf.

            (Correction) Maine: The previous edition of News & Notes reported that House Paper 1170 was signed into law by Governor John Baldacci and prohibits a motor vehicle exhaust system from exceeding 62 dB(A) at a distance of 50 feet or greater in an area designated as a quiet zone.  This information was based on the introduced version of the bill.

            Joshua Herndon, of the United Bikers of Maine and State Rep for the Motorcycle Riders Foundation, pointed out the bill was amended and enacted as LD-1642.  Signed into law April 12 by Governor Baldacci, the legislation requires all vehicles operated in Maine to have a muffler and modifications to amplify the exhaust sound are prohibited. A study group is mandated to research the noise issue and make further recommendations to the legislature.

            The governor also signed LD-1675 into law, which requires inspection stickers to be placed on the rear of a motorcycle registered in the state as of January 1, 2012. A study group is also mandated and must report to the legislature no later than January 1, 2011.

            Maryland: House Bill 676, sponsored by Delegates James Malone, Jr., (D-Arbutus) and Benjamin Kramer (D-Montgomery County), authorizes the use of certain auxiliary lighting on motorcycles. Senate Bill 189, sponsored by Senator Bryan Simonaire (R-Anne Arundel County), authorizes the Motor Vehicle Administration to suspend for up 180 days the license of a person who is convicted of a moving violation that contributed to an accident that resulted in death. Both bills were signed into law May 20 by Governor Martin O'Malley.

            Massachusetts: In a vote of 141-12, the Massachusetts House voted to increase the minimum age to operate an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) to 14-years old. This raises the minimum from the previous age of 10. After previously passing through the Senate, the bill will now head to Governor Deval Patrick for possible signature.

            Ohio: House Bill 537, sponsored by Rep. Cheryl Grossman (R-Grove City), would require all driver license applicants under 18 years of age to provide evidence of successful completion of a first-aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation training course within one year preceding their application.

            Ohio: Following devastating tornados in northwest Ohio on June 5, members of the Toledo Trail Riders (http://www.toledotrailriders.com) are calling for volunteers to assist in the cleanup of the Maumee State Forest (http://www.ohiodnr.com/DNN/forests/maumee/tabid/5159/Default.aspx) APV area.  Contact Matt Bucher at mbucher@toledotrailriders.com for more information.

            Oklahoma: Five bills requested and supported by ABATE of Oklahoma have been signed into law by Governor Brad Henry. Sponsored by Rep. Mike Christian (R-Oklahoma City), House Bill 2264 adds a $3.00 fee for each registered motorcycle for deposit in the Motorcycle Safety and Education Program Revolving Fund. House Bill 2322, sponsored by Rep. Paul D. Roan (D-Tishomingo), clarifies state law with regard to yielding the right-of-way for left-turning vehicles. Two bills were sponsored by Sen. Randy Bass (D-Lawton): Senate Bill 1329 permits a motorcycle operator to proceed with caution through a 'stuck on red' traffic-actuated signal after coming to a complete stop and determining the signal did not detect the motorcycle, and Senate Bill 1670 changes the makeup of the Advisory Committee for Motorcycle Safety and Education. Lastly, Senate Bill 1917, sponsored by Sen. Cliff Aldridge (R-Choctaw), provides for special license plates in support of the Downed Bikers Association and for Armed Forces Veterans Motorcycle license plates.

            South Carolina: In a victory against motorcycle discrimination, the South Carolina Supreme Court has struck down a Myrtle Beach, S.C., law that required riders to wear helmets within the city limits. The measure was one of more than a dozen designed to keep motorcyclists out of Myrtle Beach.

            The city passed the law in 2008 despite a state law that allows motorcyclists 21 or older to choose to ride with or without a helmet. The City Council had passed 15 laws and amendments at that time targeting motorcyclists who attended week-long bike rallies in the Myrtle Beach area, ranging from the helmet requirement to a ban on loitering in parking lots, in an attempt to keep riders out of the city.

            The state supreme court, in a decision issued on June 8, said the Myrtle Beach helmet ordinance was pre-empted by state law.

            "We find that the City Helmet Ordinance fails under implied field preemption due to the need for statewide uniformity and therefore issue a declaratory judgment invalidating the ordinance," the high court ruled.

            "It is regrettable that the city of Myrtle Beach felt the need to alienate motorcyclists with the law, especially since motorcyclists had supported businesses in Myrtle Beach for years during rallies," said Ed Moreland, AMA senior vice president for government relations. "But we're pleased that the South Carolina Supreme Court struck down the Myrtle Beach law, sending a clear message to all jurisdictions that discriminatory laws against motorcyclists are unacceptable."

            The high court issued the ruling in response to a lawsuit filed on behalf of about 50 riders who were ticketed for riding without helmets shortly after the new law went into effect.

To read the opinion, visit http://www.judicial.state.sc.us/opinions/displayOpinion.cfm?caseNo=26825.

            Utah: On May 30, starting around 3 p.m., the Utah Highway Patrol conducted a motorcycle-only checkpoint on Interstate 80 near the Miller Motorsports Park. The date and time were such that the checkpoint stopped fan traffic leaving the facility following a U.S. round of the Hannspree FIM Superbike World Championship.

           The timing of the checkpoint and discriminatory nature of the action -- only motorcyclists were stopped -- were troubling. Indeed, an already difficult traffic situation was made far worse by the checkpoint.

           Although cooler heads prevailed, and the checkpoint was called off after approximately two hours, a number of motorcyclists contacted the AMA with questions, and the AMA contacted the Utah Highway Patrol to get answers.

           The UHP response can be read by clicking here.

June 2010

            The AMA is calling for full disclosure on current National Monument designations that could affect as many as 13 million acres throughout the West. The call follows the limited release by the Department of Interior of only 383 out of more than 2,000 pages of internal documentation related to the consideration.

            Recently, a markup in the U.S. House Committee on Natural Resources could have forced H.Res. 1254, which would require full disclosure, to the House floor. However, despite bi-partisan support, a motion to favorably report the measure was not agreed to by a vote of 20 yeas to 22 nays. In a separate motion, a voice vote agreed to report H.Res. 1254 without recommendation. That means the decision to bring the resolution to the House floor rests with Committee Chairman Nick J. Rahall II (D-W.Va.) and House leadership.

            At the heart of the issue are numerous potential National Monument designations, which would make it easier to close the affected 13 million acres to responsible off-highway vehicle (OHV) recreation. The current effort draws on authority provided by the Antiquities Act of 1906, which allows the President to exercise executive privilege to unilaterally designate national monuments without input from local officials and residents, or their congressional representatives.

            Source: http://www.amadirectlink.com/news/story.asp?id=1946

            Report shows motorcycling deaths dropped sharply in 2009. A just-released report shows that motorcycling fatalities nationwide dropped by at least 10 percent in 2009, which is the first decline in 12 years.

            Based on preliminary data, the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA), which represents the state highway safety offices nationwide, projects that motorcycling deaths declined from 5,290 in 2008 to 4,762 or fewer in 2009. The projection is based on data collected from all 50 states and the District of Columbia.

            The report is based on a survey of GHSA members, which reported fatality numbers for their states. The GHSA notes that while data are still preliminary, most states have final fatality counts for at least nine months of 2009, giving GHSA confidence to predict that the death count will be down by at least 10 percent for the year.

            While encouraging, only an in-depth study focusing on the causes of motorcycle crashes can pinpoint the reasons for the reduction. Such an effort is now underway: the Federal Highway Administration is overseeing a four-year, $3 million study at Oklahoma State University through the Oklahoma Transportation Center in Stillwater. The last major study that researched the causes of motorcycle crashes was issued in January 1981. Known as the "Hurt Report" after lead researcher (and AMA Hall of Famer) Harry Hurt of the University of Southern California, that study provided a wealth of data that has been used by organizations and individual motorcyclists to help keep riders safer on the road. But in the decades since, the traffic environment has changed enormously, prompting the AMA to advocate for a new study several years ago.

            Full story and further details can be found at: http://www.amadirectlink.com/news/story.asp?id=1918

            Industry urges U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to avoid a rush to judgment on a pending decision regarding the use of E15 fuel. The Auto Alliance, the American Petroleum Institute and the Outdoor Power Equipment Institute urged EPA to delay action on the agency's proposal to allow higher levels of ethanol in gasoline. Higher levels of ethanol have not been proven safe or effective according to industry projections based on preliminary results of testing introduced at a meeting of the Mid-Level Ethanol Blends Research Coordination Group.

            In addition to government funds, the auto and oil industries have spent more than $6 million over the last two years testing engine performance and durability of higher ethanol fuels, as well as testing storage and dispensation of fuels with 15 percent ethanol (E15). Currently, fuels are allowed by EPA to contain only up to 10 percent ethanol (E10).

            Source: http://www.cnbc.com/id/36968599

            Annual Motorcyclist Advisory Council survey launched. The Motorcyclist Advisory Council (MAC) to the Federal Highway Administration has made recommendations to U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood and his predecessors on various topics, including items for the federal highway appropriations bill and encouraging the use of motorcycles as a form of congestion relief. Of special significance was the creation and approval of the yearly Motorcyclist Road Conditions Survey.            

            The purpose of the survey is to better communicate to the MAC, road construction engineers and transportation safety officials the specific needs of motorcyclists that should be considered when developing new roadways or altering existing routes.

            Access the survey at http://tinyurl.com/ykbqsr6

            Washington, D.C.: A Congressional hearing on a proposed law that could end the sales ban on youth-model dirtbikes and all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) was conducted on Thursday, April 29, 2010. The hearing on the proposed bill, the "Consumer Product Safety Enhancement Act" (CPSEA), was held by the House Committee on Energy and Commerce, Subcommittee on Commerce, Trade and Consumer Protection.

            "We are encouraged that Congress seems to be taking the concerns of AMA members and the motorcycling community seriously," said Ed Moreland, AMA vice president for government relations. "We are seeking answers to questions that we raised earlier in the week about language in the bill, but we remain cautiously optimistic that our concerns will be addressed."
            The AMA identified its concerns in an April 28 letter addressed to Subcommittee Chairman Bobby Rush (D-Ill.) and Ranking Member Ed Whitfield (R-Ky.).

            Source and full story: AmericanMotorcyclist.com/news/story.asp?id=1926.

            Colorado: Detailed maps depicting the controversial Hidden Gems Wilderness Proposal for Eagle and Summit counties are available to the public at local libraries and the Colorado Mountain College Campus in Edwards.
            The package of maps includes the overview of the entire proposal, and close-up depictions of the individual proposal areas. Comment sheets and information sheets about the proposal and Wilderness are available with the maps.
            The Hidden Gems Wilderness Proposal for Summit and Eagle counties was submitted to Colorado's congressional delegation on March 31. It seeks Wilderness designation for over 243,000 acres of public lands managed by the White River National Forest and Bureau of Land Management.

            Source: http://www.postindependent.com/article/20100430/VALLEYNEWS/100429823&parentprofile=search

            Maine: Signed into law April 12 by Governor John Baldacci, House Paper 1170, authored by Rep. Meredith Strang Burgess (R-Cumberland), prohibits a motor vehicle exhaust system from exceeding 62 dB(A) at a distance of 50 feet or greater in an area designated as a quiet zone.

            Maryland: House Bill 676, sponsored by Delegates James Malone, Jr., (D-Arbutus) and Benjamin Kramer (D-Montgomery County), authorizes the use of certain auxiliary lighting on motorcycles.  The bill passed both the House and Senate unanimously and was delivered to Governor Martin O'Malley for consideration.

            Senate Bill 189, sponsored by Senator Bryan Simonaire (R-Anne Arundel County), authorizes the Motor Vehicle Administration to suspend for up 180 days the license of a person who is convicted of a moving violation that contributed to a fatal motor vehicle crash. Voted unanimously by both the House and Senate, the bill now goes to the Governor for consideration.

            Missouri: House Bill 2421, sponsored by Rep. Sally Faith (R-St. Charles), would require every applicant for a motorcycle license or endorsement to show proof of successful completion of a motorcycle training course approved by the Department of Public Safety.

            New York: Senate Bill 7302, known as the New York State Consumers' Right to Repair Act, would require motor vehicle manufacturers to make available to vehicle owners, repair shops and the department of motor vehicles the necessary information to diagnose, service or repair a vehicle. The bill is sponsored by Sen. Jose Peralta (D-Queens).

            Senate Bill 7385, sponsored by Sen. William Larkin, Jr. (R-Cornwall-on-Hudson), would require a motorcycle to be operated with both wheels on the ground at all times, except in circumstances beyond the operator's control.
 

            Pennsylvania: House Bill 590, sponsored by Rep. Joseph Markosek (D-Monroeville), would permit a motorcyclist or bicyclist, after coming to a full and complete stop, to proceed with caution through an intersection controlled by a traffic-actuated signal if the detection system fails to recognize the motorcycle or bicycle.
 

            New Waverly, Texas: Individual trail users and recreation user groups have formed the Sam Houston Trail Coalition. Located within an hour of Houston, the 161,154-acre Sam Houston National Forest is surrounded by Montgomery, Walker, Grimes, and San Jacinto counties. The coalition will work closely with the U.S. Forest Service to plan, develop and maintain a comprehensive and sustainable trail network for diverse outdoor recreation while protecting natural resources and educating the public accordingly. Immediate objectives are development of a Master Trail Plan and working together to secure funding and volunteer support to construct, use, and maintain the trail system.

            Those seeking more information are urged to attend the upcoming Sam Houston Trail Coalition meeting on May 22, 2010 from 10:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. at the U.S. Forest Service office, 394 FM 1375 West in New Waverly. Progress-to-date on membership applications and by-laws will be discussed and election of the first Board of Directors is anticipated. While a website is being developed, information will be available on Facebook at the Sam Houston Trail Coalition page, through the Yahoo group SHTrails.

            Utah: A new eminent domain law authorizes seizure of some of the federal government's vast land holdings. In March, Gov. Gary Herbert (R) signed a law authorizing the use of eminent domain to capture some of the millions of acres that the federal government owns. The law was tailor-made to provoke a lawsuit, possibly reaching the US Supreme Court, and to inspire other Western states to enact similar legislation.

            While it's unusual for eminent domain to involve the taking of federal lands, this law is a byproduct of many state resident's frustrations. The federal government controls more than 60 percent of the state's lands, thus dictating whether land can set aside for preservation or can be accessed for mineral deposits.

            What's more, a recently leaked Interior Department memo suggests that two more sites in Utah could be potential national monuments, which would put them off limits to any development. That set off a firestorm of bipartisan criticism from lawmakers who said the administration was on the verge of orchestrating a massive and secretive federal "land grab."

            Source and full story: http://www.csmonitor.com/USA/Politics/2010/0430/Utah-uses-eminent-domain-to-seize-land-of-Uncle-Sam

May 2010

            Annual Motorcyclist Advisory Council survey launched. The Motorcyclist Advisory Council (MAC) to the Federal Highway Administration has made recommendations to U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood and his predecessors on various topics, including items for the federal highway appropriations bill and encouraging the use of motorcycles as a form of congestion relief. Of special significance was the creation and approval of the yearly Motorcyclist Road Conditions Survey.            

            The purpose of the survey is to better communicate to the MAC, road construction engineers, and transportation safety officials the specific needs of motorcyclists that should be considered when developing new roadways or altering existing routes.

            You can access the survey at http://tinyurl.com/ykbqsr6

            The AMA is reminding riders that they may be eligible for a federal tax deduction on their 2009 taxes if they bought a new motorcycle last year. The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act -- a landmark $787 billion economic stimulus package that President Barack Obama signed into law in February 2009 -- provides a deduction for state and local sales and excise taxes paid on the purchase of qualified new vehicles from Feb. 17 through Dec. 31, 2009. Qualified new vehicles include street and dual-sport motorcycles, scooters, mopeds, cars, light trucks and motor homes.
            To read the Internal Revenue Service "Questions and Answers" about the deduction, go to www.irs.gov/newsroom/article/0,,id=211310,00.html for more info.

            Alabama: Senate Joint Resolution 120, offered by Sen. Larry Dixon (R-Montgomery), urges the Alabama Department of Transportation to direct that all available roadside traffic advisory signage display the legend "Watch for Motorcycles" throughout the month of May 2010, unless needed for other advisories or urgent messages.

            Phoenix, Ariz.: The sanitation truck driver who ran into a group of motorcyclists stopped at a stoplight in Phoenix on March 25-killing four of them and injuring five others-has been arrested on suspicion of being under the influence of methamphetamine at the time of the crash, the American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) reports.

            Police arrested truck driver Michael Jakscht, 46, on April 6 and booked him on four counts of manslaughter, five counts of aggravated assault, and seven counts of endangerment.

            Initial toxicology tests on blood drawn from Jakscht on the day of the crash show he had the illegal drug methamphetamine in his system, according to police. He could face an additional charge of impaired driving, police said.

            "We again express our condolences on behalf of the AMA and its members to the families of those killed, and hope for a full recovery for those injured," Moreland said. "We will continue to watch this case closely." 

            Full story and details can be found at: http://www.amadirectlink.com/news/story.asp?id=1878

            Bakersfield, Calif.: The Forest Service will host an informational event to educate and inform riders on Saturday April 17th from 10 a.m. until 12 noon and again from 1 p.m. until 3 p.m. at Valley Cycle and Motorsports, located at 3917 Buck Owens Blvd. There will be a voluntary sound check as well as Tread Lightly!® information and displays. Riders are encouraged to bring their motorcycles and ATV's. For more information, call (661) 245-3731 EXT. 241

            Colorado: The Hidden Gems Wilderness Campaign was presented by an anti-access group to U.S. Rep. Jared Polis (D-Colo.) on March 30. The proposal would designate 244,000 acres of public land in Colorado as federal Wilderness. These new designations would be in addition to 3.5 million acres already designated as Wilderness in Colorado.
            Because Polis is expected to introduce related legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives, the AMA is asking all motorcyclists and off-highway vehicle (OHV) enthusiasts to share their concerns over latest effort to inappropriately designate your public lands as Wilderness.
            The quickest and most effective way to contact your representative is to call. You can find contact information for your elected officials at AmericanMotorcyclist.com > Issues & Legislation. Enter your zip code in the "Find your Officials" box. A pre-written e-mail also is also available to send to your representative by following the "Take Action" option and entering your information.

            Illinois: House Bill 4580, authored by Rep. William Black (R-Danville), would require the Secretary of State to immediately revoke the license, permit, or driving privileges of any vehicle operator convicted of any traffic offense that caused or contributed to a crash resulting in the death of a person.

            Indiana: ABATE of Indiana requested and supported Senate Bill 31, introduced by Sen. Philip Boots (R-Crawfordsville), to change the permissible height of motorcycle handlebars from not more that fifteen inches above the level of the operator's seat or saddle to not higher than the shoulders of the operator when seated. In spite of Indiana's short session this year, the bill received strong support from legislators and was signed into law by Indiana's motorcycling governor, Mitch Daniels, on March 12. The new law becomes effective July 1, 2010.

            Louisiana: Senate Bill 598, introduced by Sen. Yvonne Dorsey (D-Baton Rouge), would require every "off-road vehicle operator" to complete a safety course and carry a safety certificate with them while riding. The bill would also require riders under 12 years of age to wear helmets. The text of SB-598 is available on the Rights page of AmericanMotorcyclist.com.

            Maryland: House Bill 1282, authored by Del. Curt Anderson (D-Baltimore) and Senate Bill 492, authored by Sen. John C. Astle (D-Annapolis), would provide exemptions to the motorcycle helmet requirement for those operators or occupants of three-wheeled enclosed-cab motorcycles or operators of two-wheeled motorcycles who have been licensed for at least two years or completed a motorcycle rider safety course. Adult passengers on two-wheeled motorcycles would be able to choose as well if the operator is exempted.

            Montana: In March, a federal court ruled that the Lewis and Clark National Forest Travel Management Plan violated the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and the Montana Wilderness Study Act (MWSA).  The ruling is a significant victory for motorized recreation, as the plan would have reduced motorized access to the forest by over 50 percent.  The Russell Country Sportsmen, Montana Trail Vehicle Riders Association, Great Falls Trail Bike Riders Association, Great Falls Snowmobile Club, Meagher County Little Belters, Treasure State Alliance, Motorcycle Industry Council, Specialty Vehicle Institute of America and Blue Ribbon Coalition filed the lawsuit.  More information is available in the News section of AmericanMotorcyclist.com.

            New Hampshire: House Bill 1162, which would have required all motorcycle operators and passengers to wear helmets and House Bill 1261, which would have required all motorcycles built after December 31, 1982 to be equipped with stock exhaust systems, failed in action on the House floor.  Both bills were authored by Rep. Judy Day (D-North Hampton) and were unanimously deemed "inexpedient to legislate" by the House Transportation Committee. HB-1261

was defeated 267-28 in a floor vote while HB-1162 died when the House adopted the consent calendar of February 17.

            Ohio: House Bill 204, sponsored by Rep. Tom Letson (D-Warren), would clarify restrictions placed on those motorcycle operators with a valid temporary instruction permit or temporary instruction permit identification card and would authorize the angled parking of motorcycles. Current law requires all motorcycles to park within one foot of and parallel to the curb or edge of the roadway. 

            Pennsylvania: The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation is launching a new Motorcycle Safety Media Campaign, "Live Free Ride Alive," in hopes of reducing the number of injuries and deaths as a result of motorcycle crashes. With an interactive website that offers innovative tools and information, riders are asked to share their stories, pledge to "be one less" statistic by committing to avoid risky behavior, request "Live Free Ride Alive" motorcycle license plates, opportunities to schedule a free motorcycle safety training course and more. Visit the campaign website to watch or submit your own documentary at http://www.livefreeridealive.com.

            Tennessee: Senate Bill 2649, sponsored by Sen. Tim Burchett (R-Knoxville), enhances consumer protection laws by including on-highway motorcycles in the state's lemon law coverage for motor vehicles. Signed by Governor Phil Bredesen on March 17, the new law becomes effective July 1.

            Utah: In March, the state house passed a resolution opposing additional national monuments in Utah. The action, sponsored by Rep. Michael Noel (R-Kanab), was in response to a leaked U.S. Interior Department list of potential monuments - two of which would be in Utah. 

            Similarly, U.S. Sen. Bob Bennett (R-Utah) introduced legislation that would require congressional approval of additional monument designation. Currently, the President can unilaterally designate national monuments. 

            France: With bikers blocking the roads, the French authorities are apparently backing off of plans to prohibit lane filtering (splitting). A national protest on March 13, 2010 was attended by 40,000 motorcyclists, who expressed their anger at government proposals to ban filtering through traffic during high congestion on the roads. The government announced their intention to treat motorbikes and scooters like cars, i.e. prevent bikes from overtaking cars in traffic jams and stay stuck behind, like cars do. Furthermore, bikers were advised to take the public transport if they were not happy, which is precisely what they did in a few cities and towns all over France, bringing the network to a complete stop.

            Source: http://ukfrancebikers.com/2010/03/14/french-motorcyclists-more-angry-than-ever/

            You could win a trip to the Yamaha Champions School -- and write about your experience in the pages of American Motorcyclist magazine.
            In partnership with Yamaha and the Yamaha Champions School, American Motorcyclist magazine, the official magazine of the AMA, is giving away a free trip to the school, based at Miller Motorsports Park near Salt Lake City, and the opportunity to write a story detailing what you learned and what you thought of the experience. In addition, you'll have a chance to star in your own Internet video in your quest to go viral.
            Interested? You must be an AMA member and have a valid motorcycle license. The entry deadline is May 20. For more information go to AmericanMotorcyclist.com. For info on the Yamaha Champions School, see MillerMotorsportsPark.com/learn/motorcycle-school.
             Full story and details can be found at: http://www.amadirectlink.com/news/story.asp?id=1834

April 2010 

            Washington, D.C.: USDA Forest Service Chief Tom Tidwell recently announced a series of events to provide opportunities for public discussion on the development of a new Forest Service Land and Resource Management Planning Rule (planning rule). The Forest Service will host a national science forum, three national roundtables and nine regional roundtables.     
            Additional information, including specific meeting locations and dates, can be found at

http://www.fs.usda.gov/planningrule. Webcasting may also be available for selected meetings, please check the website for full details.

            Also in an effort to encourage widespread participation, the Forest Service is using new media tools in conjunction with the public meetings. Visit http://blogs.usda.gov/usdablogs/planningrule to see the Forest Service's web-based planning rule blog. 

            Washington, D.C.: Bipartisan condemnation was swift following the publication by the AMA and others of an internal Department of Interior (DOI) document that revealed the agency's plan to designate without public debate as many as 13 million acres of public and private land in the West as National Monument areas.

            According to DOI documents obtained by the AMA, the administration is considering new National Monument designations totaling 13 million acres in 11 states: Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Utah, Washington and Wyoming.

            Interior Department spokeswoman Kendra Barkoff told the Salt Lake (Utah) Tribune that the documents that created the uproar were simply the result of a "brainstorming session" at the department.

            "It remains incumbent upon the government to responsibly protect our lands for the people, not from the people," said Ed Moreland, AMA vice president for government relations. "And that means proposals for land-use designations must be fairly debated. This proposal is not only an end-run around Congress, but also around the individuals and communities who would be directly impacted by this type of administrative maneuver."

            Source: http://www.amadirectlink.com/news/story.asp?id=1782

            Washington, D.C.: The Coalition for Recreational Trails (CRT), a federation of national and regional trail-related organizations, is pleased to announce its 2010 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 2010, June 7-13, 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. The awards ceremony will be held on Capitol Hill, and members of Congress will be encouraged to join the ceremonies to honor 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. In addition, projects completed before 1998 are ineligible. Project award categories include: construction and design; maintenance and rehabilitation; education and communication initiatives; accessibility enhancement; multiple-use management or "corridor sharing;" environment/wildlife compatibility; and use of youth conservation/service corps. For additional information and a nomination form visit: http://www.americantrails.org/rtp/crtawards.html

            Hollister, Calif: Bureau of Land Management (BLM) extends comment period on Clear Creek Draft Plan. The public comment period for the draft resource management plan and environmental impact statement has been extended by 45 days by the BLM. The Clear Creek Management Area in southern San Benito and western Fresno counties has a long history of public recreational use.

            The draft resource management plan and environmental impact statement was released in December 2009 with a 90 day comment period. Three public meetings were also held in Coalinga, Hollister and Santa Clara, CA in January 2010 to gather comments. The initial 90-day comment period ended on March 5, 2010. With the new extension comments must be postmarked or received by April 19, 2010.

            Source: http://www.blm.gov/ca/st/en/fo/hollister.html

            Grass Valley, Calif.: BUB Enterprises has received approval from the California Air Resources Board (CARB), allowing the sale in California of their catalytic converter equipped exhaust for Harley Davidson motorcycles. This allows replacement of OEM exhaust with BUB True Dual or TDX headers and BUB catalyst equipped mufflers. These exhaust systems carry up to a full five-year emissions warranty when installed on new or qualifying mileage motorcycles.

            This represents a new milestone in the aftermarket exhaust business as the executive order process for motorcycle critical emission components was only approved in October 2009 and BUB Enterprises is the first aftermarket motorcycle exhaust company to produce compliant exhaust.

            Source: http://www.bubent.com/

            Utah: Senate Bill 106, which would have required all motorcycle exhaust systems meet the federal labeling requirement (40 CRF part 205) has been removed from consideration for the remainder of the 2010 legislative session.

            Originally introduced by Senator Patricia Jones and passed by the transportation committee, it would have required all vehicles to be equipped with an exhaust system that is "installed by the original manufacturer of the vehicle and is not modified; or meets specifications equivalent to the muffler installed by the original manufacturer of the vehicle and is not modified."

            Opponents of the bill pointed out it would force many older vehicles off the road either due to a lack of parts or prohibitive costs for original OEM equipment. Likewise the bill did not provide law enforcement or riders with a clear standard, and would have forced them to make subjective judgments on whether or not an exhaust system was in fact compliant.

            Fairfield County, Ohio: Former American Motorcyclist Association Board Chairman Dal Smilie was sentenced Monday, Feb. 22, to eight months in prison and two years probation for embezzling more than $100,000 through fraudulent travel reimbursement claims submitted to the AMA over a period of years ending in 2007.

            Smilie pleaded guilty to felony counts of grand theft by deception and of receiving stolen property in the Fairfield County, Ohio, courtroom of Judge Chris Martin. He was taken directly into custody to begin serving a sentence that could see him request early release after 30 days. He was also ordered to pay a $1,000 fine and court costs.

            Source: http://www.amadirectlink.com/news/story.asp?id=1775

            Nevada: Assembly Bill 3, if approved by the senate as proposed, would allow monies from the rider training program to be raided as part of an ongoing effort to attempt to balance the state's budget. This user-funded program has served thousands of riders since its establishment by the legislature in 1991 and works closely with the state driver's license division, motorcycle clubs and groups, law enforcement, the media, the community college system, (which primarily conduct the training classes) and traffic safety professionals statewide.

            These groups work cooperatively to raise awareness and reduce the incidence of motorcycle crashes and fatalities statewide. However if approved by the senate as proposed, it would allow the monies in this important program to be reallocated to other non specified purposes.

            Full story: http://capwiz.com/amacycle/state/main/?state=NV&view=myofficials

            Florida: House Bill 875, sponsored by Rep. Greg Evers (R-Milton) and Senate Bill 1918, sponsored by Sen. Dave Aronberg (D-Fort Myers), would enhance penalties for those who commit a moving violation that causes serious bodily injury or death to a person operating or riding in/on a motor vehicle or motorcycle. For causing serious bodily injury, the bills call for a fine of not less than $500, a minimum of 30 days incarceration, a mandatory driver improvement course and revocation of the offender's driver's license for not less than 30 days. In those cases resulting in death, the bills seek a fine of not less than $1,000, a minimum of 90 days incarceration, mandatory attendance in an advanced driver improvement course and revocation of the offender's driver's license for not less than 1 year.

            Iowa: House Bill 2351, introduced by Rep. Geri D. Huser (D-Altoona), would require the department of transportation to feature the message "Watch for Motorcycles" on all electronic message boards on Iowa's interstate highways for a four-day period during the month of May 2010, except when an emergency or other situation requires the use of a message board. Also introduced by Rep. Huser is House Concurrent Resolution 105, which seeks to designate the month of May 2010 as Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month and encourage all Iowa motorists to strive to improve motorcycle safety in this state.

            Hawaii: After more than four years of work the Sand Island Off-Highway Vehicle Association has been granted a permit to operate an off-highway vehicle park on 30 state-owned acres in Sand Island. The park will be Oahu's second legal public riding facility. At this time the park is only open to BMX riders and RC car enthusiasts but plans for dirtbike and ATV tracks are in the works. For more info see www.sandboxhawaii.com.

            Illinois: House bill 5029, which would make it illegal for anyone under the age of 16 to operate an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) or off-highway motorcycle (OHM), was scheduled to be heard in February in the House Elementary & Secondary Education Committee; however, the bill was reassigned to the Mandates Subcommittee.

The text and status of HB 5029 and a prewritten response are available on the "Rights" page of AmericanMotorcyclist.com. 

            Kentucky: At the request of the Kentucky Motorcycle Association (KMA), House Resolution 215, sponsored by Rep. Thomas Robert Kerr (R-Taylor Mill) and Senate Resolution 170, sponsored by Perry B. Clark (D-Louisville) recognize May 2010 as Motorcycle Awareness Month and urge all Kentuckians to share the road and keep motorcycle safety in mind as they travel the Commonwealth's streets and highways.

            Massachusetts: The Massachusetts Motorcycle Association (MMA) announced on March 2nd that four additional insurance companies have agreed to refund about $9 million in motorcycle insurance premium overcharges; this news comes less than two months after three insurance companies agreed to refund $11.1 million to motorcycle policy holders in the Bay State. Complete details are available at MMA's website at http://www.massmotorcycle.org and from the Attorney General of Massachusetts' website at http://tiny.cc/massinsure.

            Maryland: House Bill 1282, authored by Del. Curt Anderson (D-Baltimore) and Senate Bill 492, authored by Sen. John C. Astle (D-Annapolis), would provide exemptions to the motorcycle helmet requirement for those operators or occupants of three-wheeled enclosed-cab motorcycles or operators of two-wheeled motorcycles who have been licensed for at least two years or completed a motorcycle rider safety course. Adult passengers on two-wheeled mot