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 motorcycles would be able to choose as well if the operator is exempted.

March 2010

            Washington, D.C.: President's Budget Proposal Would Slash Trail Funding. President Obama's newly submitted proposed budget for fiscal year (FY) 2011 could be disastrous for motorized trail users. Buried in the nearly 200-page document is one paragraph dealing with the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Capital Improvement and Maintenance (CIM) program. The CIM program funds improvements, maintenance and operations of U.S. Forest Service roads, trails and recreation infrastructure. Under the budget proposal, the CIM program would be cut by $100 million -- from a $538 million appropriation in FY 2010 to a proposed $438 million in FY 2011. 

            The proposed cut is particularly disturbing in light of the Forest Service's recent work on off-highway vehicle (OHV) travel management. Many National Forests have only recently completed their travel management plans and will need funding for implementation. As these plans were developed, local Forest Service staff repeatedly told OHV enthusiasts that they lacked sufficient funding to maintain existing trails, provide trailhead facilities or to adequately inventory existing trails. Furthermore, funding for good trail design, construction and maintenance is essential to meeting the Administration's stated goals of erosion control, watershed health and forest restoration.

            The AMA urges its members to contact their federal elected officials and request that they oppose any cut in the U.S. Department of Agriculture's CIM budget.  

            Visit http://www.amadirectlink.com/legisltn/rapidresponse.asp for more information.

            Washington, D.C.: A report released by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) shows a continuation in the decline of fatalities and injuries associated with all-terrain vehicle (ATV) use. According to the CPSC, total ATV-related injuries in 2008 decreased 10 percent from 2007, with injuries to children under 16 declining six percent.

            The CPSC also reported that the risk of injury per 10,000 four-wheel ATVs in use declined by 15 percent from 2007 to 2008. This is the seventh straight year that injury risk for ATV riders has decreased, and it is now lower than at any time since CPSC began calculating this injury risk in 1985. Four-wheel ATVs have become increasingly popular, with the number of vehicles in use increasing more than 300 percent since 1998.           

            Source: http://www.amadirectlink.com/news/story.asp?id=1706

            Washington, DC: Transportation Department bans texting for commercial truck drivers. Following up on last year's distracted driving summit, in which the AMA was an invited guest, U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood announced new federal guidance to expressly prohibit texting by drivers of commercial vehicles. The prohibition is effective immediately and is the latest in an ongoing series of actions taken since the national summit was held.

            Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) research shows that drivers who send and receive text messages take their eyes off the road for an average of 4.6 seconds out of every 6 seconds while texting. At 55 miles per hour, this means that the driver is traveling the length of a football field, including the end zones, without looking at the road. Drivers who text while driving are more than 20 times more likely to be involved in a crash than non-distracted drivers. Because of the safety risks associated with the use of electronic devices while driving, FMCSA is all working on additional regulatory measures that will be in the near future.

            To read the AMA's position statement on distracted and inattentive driving, please go to www.AmericanMotorcyclist.com/legisltn/positions/distracted.asp.

            Boston, Mass.: Attorney General recovers $11.1 million in motorcycle insurance overcharges for consumers. The Attorney General's Office (AGO) has entered into settlements with Safety Insurance Company ("Safety"), Liberty Mutual Insurance Company ("Liberty") and Quincy Mutual Fire Insurance Company ("Quincy") resolving allegations that they overcharged consumers for motorcycle insurance by using incorrect motorcycle values to calculate premiums.  The settlements, which return $11.1 million to consumers, stem from an investigation that the Attorney General's Office began over a year ago, after a consumer filed a complaint with the office's Insurance & Financial Services Division. 

            The Massachusetts Motorcycle Association (MMA) is spearheading the effort to ensure that all motorcyclists entitled to refunds get them.

            "The AGO has reached out to the motorcycling community, through the MMA, out of concern that the insurance companies might not be able to identify and locate the riders," said MMA Chairman Dave Condon. "All riders are encouraged to contact the MMA directly for assistance in expediting your refund."

            To qualify for a refund, you must answer "yes" to the following questions:

                  o   Did you buy motorcycle insurance from the Safety, Liberty or Quincy insurance company?

                  o   Did your motorcycle insurance policy contain the collision or comprehensive options?

                  o   Did you buy this optional motorcycle insurance at any time during the years 2002 to the present?

            If you answered "yes" to all three questions, then you may be due a refund and are urged to send your contact information via e-mail to: MyRefund@MassMotorcycle.org. Or by mail to the following address: Attn: MA AGO Insurance Settlement, P.O. Box 378, Brimfield, MA 01010.

            The contact information will be shared only with the Massachusetts Attorney General's Office Insurance and Financial Services Division and the named insurance carrier, Condon said. The information should include your name, address (past and present), telephone number, e-mail, and the year, make, model and VIN number of the motorcycle or motorcycles that were insured.

            Alternately, the AGO has worked with the three insurance companies to establish the following hotlines: Liberty (800) 569-5411, Quincy (800) 899-1116, and Safety (877) 951-6416.

            Auto insurance companies are required to calculate premiums by following the rules in their rating manuals. The settling insurers' rating manuals required the insurers to use current motorcycle book values to calculate the collision and comprehensive premiums charged to consumers.  However, rather than using current book values to calculate premiums, the settling insurers in many cases allegedly used motorcycle values that were inflated and out-of-date. 

            Under the terms of the settlements filed in Suffolk Superior Court, it is anticipated that Safety will return $7.2 million to policyholders; Liberty will return $3.1 million to policyholders; and Quincy will return $800,000 to policyholders. The three insurance companies will also make payments to the state totaling $510,000. The settlements cover alleged overcharges going back to 2002 and require the insurers to pay six percent interest to consumers on the alleged overcharges. Average refunds to consumers are anticipated to be approximately $300 with some consumers receiving thousands of dollars. Tens of thousands of policies are believed to have been affected. 

            Source: http://www.massmotorcycle.org/content.aspx?page_id=5&club_id=769540&item_id=11858

            Lake Elsinore, Calif.: Roadracing World Magazine interviews AMA President and CEO Rob Dingman. Roadracing World Magazine's David Swarts talked with Dingman about professional racing, vintage racing and the current state of the AMA. Broken into three parts, the interview addressed many questions about the AMA's past and present activities, including how the Association benefits from the sale of AMA Pro Racing assets, the new direction of vintage racing in America, and how the AMA will grow membership moving forward.

            -       Part 1, AMA Pro Racing: http://roadracingworld.com/news/article/?article=39217

            -       Part 2, Vintage Racing: http://roadracingworld.com/news/article/?article=39219

            -       Part 3, The State of the AMA: http://roadracingworld.com/news/article/?article=39218

            Ocotillo, Calif: California State Parks recently kicked-off a comprehensive update of the General Plan for the popular Ocotillo Wells State Vehicular Recreation Area. A General Plan is a broad-based policy document that establishes a long-range vision and goals. The plan also provides direction on future types of improvements, services, and programs. An Environmental Impact Report (EIR) will be prepared as required by the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). The EIR will evaluate potential environmental effects associated with adoption of the General Plan.

            A consulting firm is assisting Ocotillo Wells with this process and has a short questionnaire posted. Visit PlanOcotilloWells.com to help identify key planning issues to be considered.

            Washington State: The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has released its Draft Reiter Foothills Forest Recreation Plan. While approximately 4,000 acres of the 10,000-acre area being studied have seen off-highway motorcycle use in the past, the new DNR plan proposes limiting motorized use to 1,100 acres. That would represent a 72.5 percent reduction in available riding opportunities despite a DNR survey that showed motorcycling is the most popular use for the area (60 percent of user groups surveyed). The DNR admits that the 1,100 acres proposed is inadequate to accommodate existing use, and their own research has identified additional area suitable for OHV use. Furthermore, because the plan does not explicitly identify motorized single-track motorcycle trails, there is no guarantee that there will be any left open to motorized use.

            A "Save Reiter" Facebook page has been created and the Northwest Motorcycle Associations website has the latest information.

            Source: http://www.nmaoffroad.org/index.shtml

            Hot Springs, Ark.: Members of Arkansas' congressional delegation say a U.S. Forest Service plan to close areas of the Ouachita National Forest to OHVs is misguided and have requested a halt to the implementation of the project.

            Senators Blanche Lincoln and Mark Pryor and U.S. Representative Mike Ross say any such rule could hurt the economy in western Arkansas. Lincoln cites the Mena area in particular as one that would be hard-hit by any ban in the National Forest. Pryor and Ross also asked officials of the National Forest to "re-engage" with local and state officials to find a commonsense solution. "Reasonable access to our nation's public lands, for both jobs and recreation, is something many Arkansans depend upon," Lincoln said in a news release.

            Source: http://www.baxterbulletin.com

            Great Falls, Mont.: the National Off Highway Vehicle Conservation Council (NOHVCC) is holding another round of Public Land Advocacy webinars soon. These webinars will complement the highly popular Public Land Advocacy DVD series. The webinar series will help participants understand and be effectively involved in OHV management and agency planning processes. Topics such as, writing effective comments, working with land managers, the agency process for designating routes, and so on are intended to help individuals promote and preserve OHV riding opportunities. There will also be information for land managers including getting to know the enthusiasts and how to provide excellent trail systems for riders. 

            Individuals will have the opportunity to ask questions of the presenter and to interact with other participants.         

            Visit http://www.nohvcc.org/education/webinars.asp for dates and sign up information.

            Columbia, S.C.: South Carolina's highest court has heard arguments over whether a city can require motorcycle riders to wear helmets, despite the lack of a state law requiring them.

            In September 2008, the Myrtle Beach City Council voted unanimously to pass 15 ordinances intended to crack down on rallies, including the helmet requirement. Violators of the helmet law face a $100 fine but no jail time. Justices questioned an attorney for the city over what they seemed to view as the intent of the ordinance: which was not to make Myrtle Beach's roads safer for riders, but instead to discourage attendance at two popular biker rallies.

            State Rep. Thad Viers argued that a state law governing traffic ordinances specifically spells out what local governments are allowed to do regarding traffic laws. He also contended that allowing the municipal ordinance to trump existing state law would have serious consequences statewide.

            Source: http://www.thestate.com/statewire/story/1139849.html

February 2010

            Washington, DC: The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) voted unanimously (5-0) last month to extend a stay of enforcement on testing and certification of many regulated children's products, which includes youth model-motorcycles and ATVs. While enforcement of specific CPSC testing requirements has been stayed, the products must still comply with all applicable rules and bans.
            Additionally, the Commission voted (4-1) to extend the stay on certification and third party testing for children's products subject to lead content limits until February 10, 2011. Under this decision, products must still meet the 300 ppm (parts per million) lead limit now, but certification and third party testing to show compliance will be required for all children's products manufactured after February 10, 2011.

            Source: http://www.amadirectlink.com/news/story.asp?id=1621

            Hollister, Calif.: Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Clear Creek Draft Plan public meeting schedule released. The BLM Hollister Field Office will host three public meetings to gather comments on the Clear Creek Management Area Draft Resource Management Plan (RMP) and Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) in January 2010. Each public meeting will begin with an open house where the public can gather information, talk with BLM specialists, and provide written comments on the draft RMP/EIS. Following the open house, the BLM will give a brief introduction followed by an opportunity for the public to provide oral comments on the draft RMP/EIS. Although oral comments will be noted on flip charts, BLM will only respond to written public comments in the proposed RMP and final EIS.            

            Each public meeting will take place from 5:30 - 8:30 p.m.

            Jan. 13, 2010: Harris Ranch Garden Ballroom, 24505 W. Dorris Ave., Coalinga, Calif.           

            Jan. 14, 2010: Veterans Memorial Hall, 649 San Benito St. Hollister, Calif.

            Jan. 20, 2010: Santa Clara Convention Center, Great America Meeting Rooms, 5001            

                                   Great America Parkway, Santa Clara, Calif.

            For additional information contact the Hollister Field Office at (831) 630-5000. The draft RMP/EIS is available for public review online at:             http://www.blm.gov/ca/st/en/fo/hollister/clear_creek_management_area/CCMA_RMP.html.

            Kern County, Calif.: Judge orders closure of popular off-highway vehicle (OHV) trails in Mojave Desert. An administrative law judge has rescinded a Bureau of Land Management (BLM) decision to open two OHV trails in the Mojave Desert. The decision from the Interior Department's Interior Board of Land Appeals (IBLA) upholds an appeal brought by the Center for Biological Diversity, which argued the plan to open two routes in the Rand Mountain Management Area of Kerns County was flawed.
            David Briery, a spokesman in BLM's California Desert district, said his office had not yet seen the IBLA ruling and that Interior attorneys would determine the agency's next move in the coming weeks.
            Source: http://www.mercedsunstar.com/280/story/1257895.html

            Tracy, Calif.: Carnegie State Vehicle Recreation Area (SVRA) focus of lawsuit. Recently, Judge Frank Roesch of the Alameda Superior Court indicated his intent to sign an order that would effectively close the SVRA to public use by directing the suspension of all off-highway vehicle (OHV) activity.

            In response, California State Parks went to court to request a stay to delay an immediate closure of the park. The judge granted a stay, delaying closure of the park until the end of business on Dec. 29, 2009.

            On Thursday Dec. 24th, the Attorney General's office filed a petition with the First District Court of Appeals, in San Francisco. This action requested an immediate stay of the closure order until the Court of Appeals has time to review the lower court's decision.

            On Monday, Dec. 28th, the First District Court of Appeals, in San Francisco, issued a "temporary stay", as requested by the Attorney General's office on behalf of California State Parks. The order from the Appellate Court prevents enforcement of the lower court ruling that would have closed the park on Dec. 29th. Plaintiffs in the case now have until Jan. 6, 2010 to respond to the petition filed by the Attorney General and demonstrate why there would be irreparable harm, if any, from permitting or prohibiting OHV activity in the park, until the Central Valley Regional Water Quality Control Board takes action on the Report of Waste Discharge filed by State Parks. California State Parks has until Jan. 11 to respond to the plaintiff's brief. The park remains open until the Court of Appeals renders its final decision.

            For further info visit http://www.ohv.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=26096 and the recently launched www.CarnegieForever.org, which includes a petition and links to current information.

            San Bernardino, Calif.: A requirement that 10 or more people must obtain a $155 permit to use OHVs on private property could soon be erased from county code. Morongo Basin's county supervisors Neil Derry and Brad Mitzelfelt plan to recommend removing the staging-permit requirement from San Bernardino County's OHV code, which was passed in 2006. Under the current ordinance, groups of 10 to 199 people gathering to use OHVs must obtain a temporary special-event permit.

            The new language allows a gathering without a permit as long as the event occurs on a lot of at least 2 1/2 acres, is consistent with the other provisions in the ordinance and lasts four consecutive days or less within a 30-day period. In the past three years, six people have received a total of 14 permits, a number the supervisors say is so low that it proves the permit itself is not necessary.

            Source: http://www.hidesertstar.com/articles/2010/01/06/news/doc4b4431b525446548149508.txt

            Oregon: New OHV rules took effect on January 1, 2010. Changes in state law will require children under age 16 to be secured by proper restraints while riding in class I and class II vehicles mandated to have seatbelts. Class II vehicles include jeeps, trucks or side-by-side vehicles used for off-highway riding. Class I vehicles that are affected include youth-sized, side-by-side all-terrain vehicles that weigh 800 pounds or less and have seatbelts. Riders in class I quads and three-wheelers, ATVs weighing less than 800 pounds, are exempt from the law.

            The change in the helmet requirement mandates that youths under 18 must wear fastened, DOT-approved helmets while riding in any class of OHV not registered by the Division of Motor Vehicles. Anyone riding in a registered, street-legal class II ATV that leaves the highway is exempt.

            Both changes resulted from legislation passed in the 2009 legislative session and signed into law by Gov. Ted Kulongoski. The new safety restraint requirements were carried in Senate Bill 579. The amended off-highway helmet requirement was passed in Senate Bill 583.

            Anyone with questions can call the Parks and Recreation Department hotline at 1-877-7SAFELY (1-877-772-3359), email them at atv.info@state.or.us or visit www.oregonohv.org for more information.

            Indiana: Senate Bill 111, introduced by Sen. Timothy Lanane (D-Anderson), would make it a Class C misdemeanor to use a handheld wireless communications device to transmit a text message or electronic mail message while operating a motor vehicle. It also would provide enhanced penalties for repeat offenders or if another person is injured or killed. Consistent with the AMA position on distracted and inattentive motor vehicle operations, SB-111 holds vehicle operators more accountable for their actions.

            Arizona: State officials plan to crack down on OHV registration compliance. Citing statistics that indicate less than a quarter of OHVs currently registered in the state have the required OHV decal, Arizona Game and Fish officers will be stepping up compliance enforcement efforts when out in the field. The $25 OHV registration decal is good for one year from the date of purchase. Also, the Motor Vehicle Department (MVD) does not send renewal notices, so it is the responsibility of owners to make sure their vehicles remain in compliance.

            The OHV decal program took effect on Jan. 1, 2009, and requires the annual purchase of a decal for any OHV designed by the manufacturer primarily for use over unimproved terrain and weighing 1,800 pounds or less. This includes most all-terrain vehicles, side-by-sides (utility vehicles), dirt bikes and some sand rails.
            Game and Fish officers will be citing vehicle owners who fail to display the required OHV decals soon. The fine for not having the decal is $250. Decals can be obtained online at www.servicearizona.com, at any MVD office or MVD third-party service providers.

            Source: http://www.yumasun.com/news/ohv-55280-compliance-state.html 

            Illinois: House Bill 4701, introduced by Rep. Dan Brady (R-Bloomington), would require all motor vehicles operated on a highway, not just motorcycles, but also motor-driven cycles, and motorized pedalcycles, to use head lamps or daytime running lights at all times. Motorcyclists uneasy that such a "lights on" policy will wash out their profile in traffic should contact their state representative to make their concerns known.

            Minnesota: 2009's preliminary traffic death count of 403 marks another significant drop in annual road fatalities, representing a eight percent drop from the 455 deaths in 2008. The state projects a final death number of around 420, which would be the fewest number of fatalities since 356 were reported in1944.

            The preliminary 51 motorcyclist deaths represent a sharp decline (29 percent) from 72 rider deaths in 2008, which was a 24-year high. The drop in rider deaths is especially significant as ridership is at an all-time high.

            The most critical stat to determine road safety is the death rate per 100 million vehicle miles traveled (VMT). The Department of Public Safety estimates the 2009 VMT will be 0.75, which would be the lowest ever for Minnesota. In 2008, the state VMT fatality rate was 0.79 (less than one death per 100 million VMT) - among the lowest in the nation - and down from a rate of 5.52 in 1966.

            The 403-fatality count includes motorists (298), motorcyclists (51); pedestrians (36), bicyclists (9), ATV riders (3), farm equipment operators (3), commercial bus passengers/drivers (2), and a road maintenance vehicle occupant. Distracted, impaired driving, not using a seat belt and speeding are expected to be the primary contributing factors of the 2009 fatal crashes and serious injuries.

            Source: http://redrockonair.com/news/2010/01/07/mns-annual-traffic-deaths-drop/

            New Jersey: Assembly Bill 4164, sponsored by Asm. Ruben Ramos, Jr. (D-Hoboken), would provide an exemption from the sales and use tax for sales of recreational safety helmets, including those worn by motorcyclists.

            Also Assembly Bill 4244, sponsored by Asm. Vincent Prieto (D-Secaucus), proposes a $150 penalty per violation for alteration of equipment or the performance of equipment of any vehicle that has been approved at an official inspection facility with the intent to defeat the purpose of the inspection. The bill also would make the operation of any such altered vehicle a violation.

            Pennsylvania: House Bill 2104, sponsored by Rep. Michael K. Hanna (D-Lock Haven), would permit a person to file a complaint against the owner/operator of a motor vehicle that violates provisions in Section 4523 (exhaust systems, mufflers and noise control) of Title 75 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes. A magisterial district judge could issue a search warrant, authorizing the Pennsylvania State Police to inspect the motor vehicle and take appropriate action. 

January 2010

The AMA offers its most sincere condolences to the family, friends and co-workers of Hugh H. "Harry" Hurt, who died of a heart attack on Nov. 29, 2009 at the age of 81. Professor Hurt was an award-winning author best known in the motorcycling community for conducting a benchmark motorcycle safety research study in 1981 entitled "Volume I: Technical Report, Motorcycle Accident Cause Factors and Identification of Countermeasures, January, 1981 - Final Report."                        

            Commonly referred to as the "Hurt Report," the study was widely viewed to be the most comprehensive motorcycle safety study of the 20th century. In addition to that groundbreaking study, Hurt was the author of dozens of publications in the fields of motorcycle handling, safety, crash analysis, and helmet performance. It was on this basis that Hurt was inducted into the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame in 2007.

            Source: http://www.amadirectlink.com/news/story.asp?id=1577

            The AMA announced the 2009 AMA Motorcyclist of the Year with a twist: This year's recipients are a group, rather than an individual. The winners? Kids who ride motorcycles and all-terrain vehicles (ATVs). America's youngest riders were at the center of the biggest story of the year in 2009, as the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) enforced a ban on selling youth-model off-highway vehicles (OHVs).

            At the center of the controversy is the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008 (CPSIA) provision that strictly reduces the levels of allowable lead in children's toys. Because OHVs include lead in parts such as battery terminals, valve stems, engine cases and controls, in early 2009 the law banned the sale of OHVs intended for kids 12 years old and younger.

            Thanks to the efforts of AMA members, AMA staff and others, more than 70,000 motorcyclists used online tools provided by the AMA at AmericanMotorcyclist.com to voice opposition to the law. As a direct result, the CPSC issued delayed enforcement of the law until 2011. With congressional leaders reluctant to re-write a law that they had just passed, the delay of enforcement was critical to the efforts to resolve the issue because it secured valuable time for the AMA and its allies to continue to pressure regulators and lawmakers to permanently exempt youth-model OHVs from the CPSIA.

            Full story: http://www.amadirectlink.com/news/story.asp?id=1579

            The Chairman of the Subcommittee on Energy of the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources held a hearing on S. 2843, the Advanced Vehicle Technology Act of 2009, on December 8. The U.S. House companion bill is H.R. 3246. S. 2843 would authorize the Department of Energy to conduct advanced technology vehicle and component part research and development. This will increase the production of new technology in vehicles and trucks in the United States. The AMA is encouraged that language to include motorcycles will be included based on the exchange between Senator Wyden and Under Secretary Johnson of the Department of Energy at the hearing.
             On September 16, the U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R. 3246 with a vote of 312 to 114. During consideration of the bill, Representative Patrick Kennedy introduced an amendment to ensure that manufacturers of two- and three-wheeled electric vehicles are included in the list of eligible industry participants. The amendment was adopted unanimously.

            The American Motorcyclist Association, in conjunction with the National Motorsports Coalition, is asking all organizers, promoters, track owners and others to contact their members of Congress and ask them to cosponsor the Motorsports Fairness and Permanency Act of 2009 (H.R. 1974/S. 1400). The Act would make permanent the current seven-year depreciation tax standard for motorsports entertainment complexes.
            For more than 20 years, permanent motorsports facilities have operated under this classification, but in 2004 the IRS raised some questions on the issue.  Congress eventually reaffirmed that seven years was appropriate, and extended the treatment through the end of 2007. Last year, Congress acted diligently to extend the depreciation method through the end of 2008, however until permanency is obtained, the motorsports industry will continue to have to petition for an extension of the tax method. This consistently affects the more than 900 permanent motorsports facilities operating in the United States that have tremendous economic and job creation impact, both regionally and nationally.   
            In order to pass legislation providing for security of the depreciation schedule, owners, operators and everyone involved needs to contact their Senators and Representatives to ask them to cosponsor their respective bills. H.R. 1974 and S. 1400 are needed to ensure the viability of permanent tracks and the sport of motorcycle racing. For more information on how to reach out to your members of Congress log-on to www.AmericanMotorcyclist.com > Rights > Issues & Legislation.

            Congress will hold a hearing on a bill that will negatively impact Montana's off-highway vehicle (OHV) recreational opportunities. The Chairman of the U.S. Senate Subcommittee on Public Lands and Forests of the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources has scheduled a hearing on December 17 to consider S. 1470, the Forest Jobs and Recreation Act of 2009, introduced by Senator Jon Tester (D-Mont.). As it is currently written, the OHV community will lose access to many miles of popular riding trails.
            The American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) appreciates Senator Tester for reaching out to the OHV community in attempting to make this bill better for every user of our public lands. However, the AMA continues to oppose this bill as it is currently written, and urges the Subcommittee and Senator Tester to work with our Association and other groups to more fully address rider concerns so that families can continue to enjoy OHV trails in a responsible manner.

            San Francisco, Calif: Bridge Toll Hike Proposed for Earthquake Safety. The Bay Area Toll Authority (BATA) is seeking public comment on a toll increase on the seven state-owned Bay Area toll bridges: the Antioch, Benicia-Martinez, Carquinez, Dumbarton, Richmond-San Rafael, San Francisco-Oakland Bay and San Mateo-Hayward bridges.

            Ideas being considered include raising the $4 toll for cars to $5; charging carpools and motorcycle riders a discounted toll instead of allowing them to cross for free; increasing truck tolls; and charging commuters extra for crossing the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge during peak traffic hours.  Written comments, which will be accepted until 4 p.m., December 21, 2009.           

            Source: http://www.mtc.ca.gov/news/info/toll_increase.htm

            Albuquerque, N.M.: The New Mexico Off Highway Vehicle Alliance (NMOHVA) plans to use more than $322,000 in federal funds and $126,000 in matching contributions for trail work in the Cibola National Forest. NMOHVA will use the funds to construct new trail segments, rehabilitate existing trails and install signs on over 60 miles of trail. Some of the money will also go toward trailhead improvements and trail entry control. The group's partners include the Sandia Ranger District, New Mexico 4 Wheelers, the Black Feather Trail Preservation Alliance and R&S Powersports.
            Work is expected to start in the spring of 2010. Recreation planning experts from Pan Pacific Services will help manage the project.

            Source: http://www.nmohva.org/main/index.php

            Hollister, Calif.: Bureau of Land Management (BLM) seeks comments on Clear Creek draft plan. The BLM Hollister Field Office is inviting the public to comment on the draft resource management plan and environmental impact statement on the Clear Creek Management Area, covering public lands in southern San Benito and western Fresno counties. The draft RMP/EIS was developed through a public planning process and analyzes seven alternatives. The primary issues addressed are public health risks from asbestos exposure, recreation, protection of sensitive resources, energy and mineral development, land tenure adjustments, and other resource issues.

            Source: http://www.blm.gov/ca/st/en/info/newsroom/2009/december/CC1009_CCMA_drmp.html

            Missouri: Pre-filed for the upcoming 2010 Missouri General Assembly session, House Bill 1217, sponsored by Rep. Gary Dusenberg (R-Blue Springs), would permit adults 21 years of age or older to make their own decisions regarding motorcycle helmet use.
            Also pre-filed is House Bill 1332, sponsored by Rep. Jeff Roorda (D-Barnhart), which proposes strict penalties for motorcycle stunt riding on public roadways.  A "dangerous stunt" is defined as any dangerous activity by the operator or passenger, including standing or performing handstands on the seat, frame or handlebars, operating on one tire, or removing both hands from the handlebars.  Offenses would be classified as misdemeanors; a second offense involving a motorcycle without license plates, or third or subsequent offense on any motorcycle, would be classified as a felony.

  
            Pennsylvania: House Bill 2104, sponsored by Rep. Michael K. Hanna (D-Lock Haven), would permit a person to file a complaint against the owner/operator of a motor vehicle that violates provisions in Section 4523 (Exhaust systems, mufflers and noise control) of Title 75 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes. A magisterial district judge could issue a search warrant, authorizing the Pennsylvania State Police to inspect the motor vehicle and take appropriate action.

            Coos County, Ore.: A coalition of environmental groups have filed a lawsuit challenging the U.S. Forest Service's decision to allow Coos County to build a one-mile connector trail for off-highway vehicle use through part of the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area.

            The proposed road, called the Riley Ranch Access Project, would connect a county park to other county lands within the popular dunes area on the Southern Oregon Coast. The Forest Service believes it has sufficiently addressed any unresolved environmental and resource issues after conducting a lengthy three-year public planning process and environmental review.

            Source: http://www.theworldlink.com/articles/2009/05/30/outdoors/doc4a20d4eb0a1ca928257049.txt

            Craig, Colo.: The Craig City Council recently approved final passage of an ordinance allowing all-terrain vehicle (ATV) and off-highway vehicle (OHV) use on city streets. All residents who wish to drive an ATV or OHV on city streets must first register their vehicle with the Craig Police Department. Additionally applicants must be at least 18 years old and must provide proof of insurance for non-recreational use.

            The ordinance only covers vehicles with four wheels. Three-wheelers and snowmobiles therefore are excluded.

            Source: http://www.craigdailypress.com/news/2009/dec/08/council-approves-atvs-ohvs-city-travel

            British Columbia, Canada: New all-terrain vehicle (ATV) regulations have recently been adopted. These regulations aim to improve safety and address environmental concerns. These new rules include registration and licensing fees at the time of purchase as well as a mandatory helmet law for riders. A compliance and enforcement strategy will be developed and will include an education component to help ensure voluntary compliance.

            Additional rules include new sound standards for mufflers, requiring spark arrestors as well as giving local government the ability to designate crossings on public roads to assure ATV rider's access to local communities.

            Source: http://www.bclocalnews.com/bc_north/terracestandard/news/69849087.html

December 2009

            Washington, DC: Efforts to fight distracted driving move into high gear. President Obama's administration and federal lawmakers are making it clear that they are serious about reducing distracted driving on the nation's roads. In October, Obama signed an executive order banning federal workers from text-messaging on cell phones while driving government vehicles, U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood told federal lawmakers at hearings that he will work to "raise the awareness (of the dangers of distracted driving) and sharpen the consequences," and U.S. House and Senate committees held hearings on the issue.

            The U.S. House Subcommittee on Highways and Transit of the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure held a hearing on Oct. 29, "Addressing the Problem of Distracted Driving." At the hearing, LaHood said education and awareness campaigns are essential for getting people to stop texting or engaging in other distracting activities while driving.

"We are still researching the effectiveness of combining high-visibility (law) enforcement with outreach campaigns in the distracted-driving context," LaHood said. "But we are hopeful that such efforts may prove effective in the same way that we've been able to use them to reduce drunk driving and increase seatbelt use."

            Riders can contact their U.S. senators and representatives to thank them for having these hearings on combating distracted driving and urge them to include the motorcycle community in the ongoing discussions on legislation and development of technologies. To find contact information for elected officials, go to the Issues & Legislation section of the AMA's website.

            Source: http://www.amadirectlink.com/news/story.asp?id=1490

            U.S. Senate holds hearing on pro-OHV bill. The U.S. Senate Subcommittee on Public Lands and Forests of the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources, chaired by Senator Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), recently held a hearing to receive testimony on various bills, including H.R. 689.            

            Introduced by Rep. Wally Herger (R-Calif.), H.R. 689 would reduce unnecessary bureaucracy for OHV enthusiasts looking to use the Chappie-Shasta OHV Area near Redding in Northern California. The AMA supports this bill and will continue to advocate its passage.

            Source and link to webcast: http://www.amadirectlink.com/news/story.asp?id=1484

            Washington, DC: AMA, others meet with new forest service head. AMA Government Relations Vice President Ed Moreland and Government Affairs Manager Royce Wood, along with representatives of various other outdoor recreation groups, met with new U.S. Forest Service Chief Tom Tidwell recently to discuss forest trails.           

            Specifically, they discussed travel management plans for the forests, planning efforts related to various uses of forestland, and national forest policies. "Chief Tidwell seemed genuinely interested in what we had to say concerning recreational use of the national forests," Moreland said. "We're hopeful that there will be a lot of collaboration between Forest Service officials and recreational users of the forests under Tidwell's leadership.

            The meeting was held Oct. 15 in Washington, D.C. and was arranged by Americans for Recreational Access, of which the AMA is a member. Also attending were representatives of the BlueRibbon Coalition, the Motorcycle Industry Council (MIC), Specialty Vehicle institute of America (SVIA), Recreational Off-Highway Vehicle Association, Specialty Equipment Market Association, Personal Watercraft Industry Association, and American Council of Snowmobile Associations. The U.S. Forest Service manages roughly 193 million acres of public lands across 155 national forests and 22 grasslands nationwide.  

            National Off-Highway Vehicle Conservation Council (NOHVCC) OHV Public Land Advocacy Webinar series registration is now available for fall sessions. These webinars, interactive web based workshops, are for OHV riders and anyone interested in OHV land use. They are designed to give riders and land managers the skills they'll need to keep trails open in their areas. Each session will be approximately 2-3 hours long, and will be conducted by the same OHV management experts who conduct NOHVCC's on-site workshops.

            The workshop modules were developed in cooperation with the American Motorcyclist Association, BlueRibbon Coalition, Motorcycle Industry Council, Off-Road Business Association, Specialty Vehicle Institute of America, and United Four Wheel Drive Associations. 

            Visit http://www.nohvcc.org/education/webinars.asp for more information.

            Montpelier, Vt.: Legislative committee debates proposal to allow ATVs on state lands. A rule change under consideration at the Agency of Natural Resources would, for the first time in state history, allow ATVs to establish a network of legal trails on state-owned lands. The proposal to lift the ATV ban on state lands has re-ignited a years-old debate about whether ATV's belong on public forests, fields and mountains.

            State officials say the rule is intended to create short "connector" trails linking segments of a 600-mile network of legal trails created by the Vermont All-Terrain Vehicle Sportsman's

Association. Committee members deferred a decision until their upcoming Nov. 17th meeting. Questions may be sent via email to: ATVRULE@state.vt.us or via mail to: Meghan Purvee, Agency of Natural Resources, 103 South Main Street, Waterbury, VT 05671.

            Source: http://www.anr.state.vt.us/

            Atlanta, Ga.: The Georgia State Patrol and the Governor's Office of Highway Safety have announced a new safety education initiative aimed at reducing the number of motorcycle accidents across Georgia. The project was announced at the First Army Commander's Motorcycle Safety Rally at Fort Gillem.

            Major Mark McDonough, commanding officer of the Georgia State Patrol, said Georgia State Troopers assigned to the Safety Education Unit would immediately begin incorporating motorcycle safety information as part of their safety presentations at schools, civic clubs, and other organizations. The safety program is also being offered at military facilities across Georgia.

            "Educating all drivers is the foundation to build a program that will reduce the number of deaths on our roads," Major McDonough said. "Our goal is to make all drivers aware of motorcyclists and educate motorcyclists on the safe operation of the vehicle."

             In Georgia, motorcycle training is available through a course coordinated by the Georgia Department of Driver Services. If you would like to schedule a motorcycle safety presentation for a civic group, contact the Georgia State Patrol Safety Education Unit at 770-229-3422.

            Source: http://www.millercountyliberal.com/news/2009/1028/community/009.html

            Wisconsin Assembly Bill 544, introduced by Asm. Spencer Black (D-Madison) and Senate Bill 364, introduced by Sen. G. Spencer Coggs (D-Milwaukee), would prohibit the installation, sale or distribution of wheel weights or balancing products that contain lead.

            Aspen, Colo.: An association of mountain bikers in the Roaring Fork Valley has formally come out in opposition to the Hidden Gems Wilderness proposal. Already the focus of numerous state OHV and snowmobile groups, including the Colorado Off Highway Vehicle Coalition, the proposal would potentially affect many historically available riding areas.

            The Roaring Fork Mountain Bike Association informed part of Colorado's Congressional delegation recently that it couldn't support the proposed "Hidden Gems Wilderness "in its current form. The letter was also sent to the county commissioners in Pitkin, Eagle and Garfield counties.
            A wilderness designation prohibits motorized and mechanized vehicles and uses from public lands.            The mountain bike association wants a slightly lower level of protection used on most of the lands targeted as Hidden Gems. Those "companion designations" would protect lands from natural gas development and motorized travel but leave them open to mountain biking.

            Advocates from the Wilderness Workshop had previously agreed to seek a "Wilderness with bikes" designation for an area that includes parts of the popular Arbaney Kittle Trail between Woody Creek and Basalt. But overall these wilderness proponents want these areas closed and not available to any form of wheeled recreation.
            Source: http://www.valley-journal.com/article/20091103/NEWS/911039995/1010/NONE&parentprofile=1001

             San Francisco, Calif.: Bridge Toll Hike Proposed. The Bay Area Toll Authority (BATA) is considering a toll increase that would most likely include motorcyclists riding on the seven state-owned Bay Area toll bridges: the Antioch, Benicia-Martinez, Carquinez, Dumbarton, Richmond-San Rafael, San Francisco-Oakland Bay and San Mateo-Hayward bridges. (The toll proposal does not affect the Golden Gate Bridge, which is owned and operated by an independent authority).

            Three options were presented at the recent October BATA Oversight Committee meetings (http://www.mtc.ca.gov/news/info/toll_increase.htm). BATA will hold three additional public hearings in the upcoming weeks. Written comments will also be accepted until 4 p.m., December 21, 2009 and should be submitted to the BATA Public Information Office at 101 Eighth Street, Oakland, California, 94607-4700; faxed to BATA at 510.817.5848; or sent via e-mail to tolls@mtc.ca.gov. For more information on the hearings or the proposal, visit the MTC Web site at www.mtc.ca.gov or phone the BATA Public Information Office at 510.817.5757.

            El Centro, Calif.: Imperial Sand Dunes Recreation Area (ISDRA) season ramps up with new road, and increased emphasis on safety, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) announced recently. Long considered one of the premier recreational riding areas in the country, the ISDRA offers 118,000 acres of sand dunes open for OHV use.

            ATV riders are reminded that California state law requires that all ATV riders under 18 years of age possess an ATV safety certificate issued by the state or be supervised by an adult possessing a certificate. An adult must supervise all ATV riders under the age of 14. More information regarding the ATV rider course, including free enrollment, can be found at www.ohv.parks.ca.gov or by calling the ATV Safety Institute, (800) 887-2887.

            All visitors are reminded that a permit is required at the dunes. They can be purchased from a number of different vendors online, at many local area stores, as well as at the dunes themselves. Visit http://www.blm.gov/ca/st/en/fo/elcentro/recreation/ohvs/isdra.html for the latest information.

            Wasilla, Alaska: Wasilla City Council ponders ATV restrictions. In response to community requests to address the use of ATVs inside city limits, the Wasilla City Council recently met to discuss the results of a survey it conducted on the issue. The survey, which was posted to the city's website on August 24 and ran for 60 days, received 140 responses to the 10 questions asked. Questions included age limits, training, education, registration and identification required to operate ATVs. Of those responding, 70 percent identified themselves as ATV owners. The majority of respondents were between the ages of 30 and 60 years old, and almost all live in the city limits or the greater Wasilla area.

            To see the survey and view the results visit: http://www.frontiersman.com/articles/2009/10/22/local_news/doc4ae11791a907d449823793.txt

            Shanghai, China: U.S. seeks help on drywall, ATV standards compliance. Consumer Products Safety Commission (CPSC) Chairman Inez Tenenbaum said that the CPSC delegation to China, which included a representative from the MIC/SVIA, was updating the Chinese side on U.S. regulations. One of them was the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act or CPSIA, which took effect in August 2008 and imposes heavy fines for violation of rules meant to protect children from lead (which can cause irreversible brain damage).

The talks were mainly devoted to new mandatory safety standards for ATVs. "In a global economy, with goods coming from all over the world, it's important that we have clear standards that we can enforce on imports," she said.

            Source: http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/10/23/AR2009102301531.html

October 2009

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

            National Public Lands Day is Saturday, September 26, 2009. This annual event is the nation’s largest hands-on volunteer effort to improve and enhance the public lands every American enjoys. In 2008, 120,000 volunteers built trails and bridges, removed trash and invasive plants, and planted over 1.6 million trees. Visit http://www.publiclandsday.org/ to register a project or volunteer for an existing project in your area.

            The AMA and ATVA express concern over health care debate. Millions of on-highway and off-highway motorcyclists, as well as all-terrain vehicle (ATV) riders, may be adversely impacted by the various heath care bills currently under consideration in Congress. The AMA and the ATVA (All-Terrain Vehicle Association) urge riders to contact their elected officials and ask them to help ensure that motorcyclists and ATV riders will continue to be able to pursue their chosen recreational activities and/or chosen mode of transportation without the addition of unneeded prohibitions, limitations or mandates stemming from any health care legislation under consideration.            

            Source: http://www.amadirectlink.com/news/story.asp?id=1245

            Keystone, CO: With the theme "Riding to New Heights," the 2009 AMA International Women & Motorcycling Conference, presented by Harley-Davidson and Buell, wrapped up in Keystone, Colorado following four inspired days of riding, learning and networking in one of the best riding areas in the United States. The event, which ran August 19-22, not only honored the contributions of women riders to motorcycling's past and present, it also celebrated the fast-growing role that female motorcyclists are playing in the future of motorcycling. With the breathtaking Rocky Mountains as a backdrop, more than 1,000 enthusiastic motorcyclists gathered at the Keystone Resort & Conference Center for a full slate of activities that included guided tours, seminars, demo rides from multiple manufacturers, inspiring speeches, social functions and training sessions.

            Source: http://www.amadirectlink.com/news/story.asp?id=1241

            California: The California Highway Patrol (CHP) has selected the Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) to administer the California Motorcyclist Safety Program (CMSP) for the third consecutive time. Under contract with the CHP, the MSF initially assumed the administration of the CMSP in 2004 and was again selected for 2008 and 2009. The new contract calls for the MSF to administer the motorcyclist-funded, state-operated program for a three-year term, from 2010 through 2012, with two additional one-year options, for a total contract of up to five years.

            The new CMSP contract includes a 15 percent reduction in student administrative costs to the state; savings that increase state funding for motorcycle safety made possible by riders through payment of the $2 Motorcycle Safety Fee on California motorcycle registrations and renewals.

The Motorcycle Safety Foundation promotes rider safety through rider training systems, operator licensing tests and public information programs.

            Source: http://www.tmcnet.com/usubmit/2009/08/24/4335968.htm

            Tracy, Calif.: Carnegie State Vehicular Recreation Area (SVRA) reopens after fire. Damage from a recent fire, which lead to a temporary closure of this popular SVRA, has been repaired. Currently all the tracks, the campground, the valley floor, and all of the park west of the Bunkhouse and Los Osos trails are open to riding. The fire, which started on private property adjacent to the SVRA, was initially driven by strong winds and spread quickly, burning onto state property and causing damage to the eastern portion of the park. The fire later turned away from the park, and continued to burn southeast toward Patterson. Approximately 250 acres of the eastern portion of the park were burned, including fence lines and areas of dense vegetation. The entire eastern portion of Kiln Canyon (east of Kiln Road), SRI Road, and the lands above the motocross track were burned.

            Source: http://www.ohv.parks.ca.gov/

            Delaware: House Bill 122, sponsored by Rep. Earl Jaques (D-Wilmington), has been enacted. The bill makes operation and/or use of a plate frame containing or including scrolling, strobe and/or blinking lights around a license plate a violation, except during special organized events such as parades and car shows.  The bill was signed into law July 24 by Governor Jack Markell and takes effect immediately.

            Idaho: A new website that focuses on responsible off-highway vehicle (OHV) use has been recently launched. The Idaho OHV Public Education Campaign is a consortium of public lands agencies that sponsor an ongoing education campaign to help inform OHV users about the

rules of conduct for off-highway vehicles such as motorcycles, all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), utility terrain vehicles (UTVs) and four-wheel-drive vehicles on public lands. The sponsoring agencies include the Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation, Idaho Department of Fish and Game, Idaho Department of Lands, U.S. Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management. The multi-pronged campaign will involve a mix of paid advertising including radio and outdoor ads, public relations activities and events. The campaign is focused on Idaho riders statewide in hopes of improving compliance with rules and regulations regarding OHV use on public lands.

            Source: http://stayontrails.com/

            North Carolina: Senate Bill 64, sponsored by Sen. Harry Brown (R-Jacksonville), proposed changes to requirements for obtain a motorcycle learner's permit and a motorcycle endorsement, including mandatory rider training for all first-time endorsement applicants. In an amendment offered on the House floor by Rep. Dale Folwell (R-Winston-Salem), the bill was changed to instead make rider education mandatory for those riders less than 18 years of age and make a learner's permit valid for twelve months with one six-month renewal. Governor Mike Easley signed the bill into law on August 26; it takes effect January 1, 2011.

            Louisiana: House Bill 802, sponsored by Rep. James R. Fannin (D-Jonesboro), authorized the transfer by the state treasurer of $6,544 from the Motorcycle Safety and Training Fund to the state general fund.  The transfer was part of a $24,378,056 raid on 75 dedicated funds.  Signed into law by Governor Bobby Jindal on June 30, the transfer is authorized to occur immediately.

            Michigan: House Bill 4205, sponsored by Rep. Tom Pearce (R-Rockford), would prohibit the intentional placement of an item in or across a roadway that is likely to come into contact with a moving vehicle or a person riding in or upon a moving vehicle or the placement of any dangerous item in or across a roadway. Proposed penalties range from not more than 1 year in prison or a fine of not more that $500 (or both) for a violation that results in property damage and up to 15 years in prison or a fine of not more than $10,000 (or both) for a violation causing death.

            Pennsylvania: PennDOT Offers Free Motorcycle Safety Courses. Classes providing the opportunity to learn or improve skill are conducted annually from March through October. The Basic Rider Course (BRC) is a 15-hour course consisting of five hours of in-class instruction and 10 hours of practical riding experience, under the watchful eyes of certified rider coaches. The six-hour Experienced Rider Course (ERC) provides skilled riders the chance to refresh their safety knowledge and hone their on-highway skills. Visit www.pamsp.com for more information on the Motorcycle Safety Program and to enroll in a course. Additional information about motorcycle safety as well as general information on licensing and registration is available at www.dmv.state.pa.us.

            Philadelphia, Pennsylvania: New motorcycle and scooter parking spaces installed. The Philadelphia Parking Authority has begun to install special parking zones for motorcycles and scooters in parts of the downtown business district. Parking Authority officials say the spaces will cost $1 per hour, half the rate for cars. The motorcycle and scooter spaces are part of broader downtown parking changes that were implemented in July and include multi-space meters that accept debit cards and additional truck loading zones. All the parking changes should be finished by February. The parking authority will ticket motorcycles and scooters parked on sidewalks as parking zones are created.

            Source: http://www.philapark.org/permits/permit_info.aspx

            Irving, Texas: Newest MSF Campus Up and Running. Expanded facility offers rider training, education and research opportunities. The MSF Campus at Irving offers the complete system of MSF on- and off-highway rider education and training opportunities available to date including the Basic RiderCourse, the Experienced RiderCourse, the DirtBike School, as well as the ATV Safety Institute's ATV RiderCourse. The MSF Campus is also a research and testing site for new MSF curriculum products currently under development, with the added value that students there are likely to be among the first to benefit from new courses when they are officially released. In addition, the MSF Campus hosts ongoing professional development events for MSF RiderCoaches, DirtBike School Coaches, and ASI Instructors.

            Class schedules and online enrollment are available at www.msf-campus.org.

            Source: http://www.msf-usa.org/

            Officers elected to American Motorcycle Heritage Foundation Board of Directors.  The AMA is pleased to announce the results of officer elections for the American Motorcycle Heritage Foundation (AMHF) Board of Directors, which raises money for the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum. Jack Penton, AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame off-road racer with more than 40 years of industry experience, was elected chairman. Tom White, founder of White Brothers and the Early Years of Motocross Museum in Villa Park, Calif., was elected vice chairman. Jeff Heininger, founder of automotive travel product company Heininger Automotive, was elected secretary/treasurer, an office the Directors also voted to combine at the July 26 meeting. Penton's current term extends through February 2011. White and Heininger's terms expire in February 2012. AMHF Board officers are elected annually.

            Source: http://www.amadirectlink.com/news/story.asp?id=1203

            London, England: New helmet safety ratings unveiled. An additional 25 motorcycle helmets have been rated by SHARP, the Department for Transport's Safety Helmet Assessment and Ratings Program, bringing the number of ratings published to 150. Helmets sold in the UK must meet minimum legal safety standards but the SHARP scheme uses a wider range of tests to provide riders with more information on how much protection a helmet can provide in a crash. The objective advice, which includes important guidance on how to select a good fitting helmet, helps riders to choose the safest helmet suitable for them. The SHARP tests - which award ratings of between one and five stars - showed that the safety performance of helmets can vary by as much as 70%. With helmets across a wide price range scoring highly, all riders should be able to find a high performing helmet in a size and style that fits them at a price they can afford.

September 2009

U.S. House Congratulates American Motorcyclist Association on its 85th anniversary.

The AMA, a frequent voice about the dangers to motorcyclists of distracted and

data to avoid angering Congress (see http://www.cnbc.com/id/32026716). With that data

can be found on the event’s webpage at http://www.rita.dot.gov/distracted_driving_summit/. Also,

http://www.nytimes.com/2009/07/28/technology/28texting.html).

the country (see http://www.cnn.com/2009/POLITICS/07/29/texting.ban/index.html).

The AMA is pleased to announce that longtime motorcyclist and rider safety coach

U.S. House members sign letter of support for the Recreational Trails Program (RTP).

http://www.americanmotorcyclist.com/legisltn/RTP_Ltr_Transportation_Comm_July09.pdf. Source: http://www.amadirectlink.com/news/story.asp?id=1159

North Carolina: Senate Bill 64, sponsored by Sen. Harry Brown (R-Jacksonville),

Florida: SunPass transponder use between the I-95 Express and the southern Florida

Florida: Recently the Florida OHV (Off Highway Vehicle) Advisory Committee was

information visit www.floridatrailriders.org. For assistance identifying or contacting your state

legislators visit the “Rights” page of www.AmericanMotorcyclist.com, click on “Issues &

Ohio: House Bill 234, sponsored by Rep. Mike Moran (D-Hudson), would authorize the

Missouri: House Bill 253, sponsored by Rep. Cynthia Davis (R-O'Fallon), specifically

House Bill 683, sponsored by Rep. Ed Schieffer (R-Troy), and Senate Bill 368,

House Bill 481, sponsored by Rep. Timothy Jones (R-Eureka), passed by

(http://www.abateformissouri.com) and Freedom of Road Riders (http://www.forr.net) throughout

New Mexico: Recently the Off Highway Vehicle (OHV) program officially transitioned from

Governor Richardson on April 1. DG&F has resurrected the www.b4uride.com website and it has

Arizona: Off-Highway Vehicle Advisory Group (OHVAG) seeking applicants. The OHVAG

August 2009

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

            Protect your right to ride! Volunteering is easier than you think. Visit us at AmericanMotorcyclist.com, click on Rights, then Get Involved to learn how you can help.

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

            New stationary on-highway motorcycle sound test standard released by the Society of Automotive Engineers International (SAE): The SAE has produced a simple, consistent and economical sound test standard that can be used to determine whether a streetbike (on-highway motorcycle) exhaust system emits excessive sound, the AMA reports. The procedure is the result a long-term project of the Motorcycle Industry Council and the Society of American Engineers. The J2825 "Measurement of Exhaust Sound Pressure Levels of Stationary On-Highway Motorcycles," issued by the SAE in May 2009, establishes instrumentation, test site, test conditions, procedures, measurements and sound level limits. According to the SAE, the J2825 standard is based on a comprehensive study of a wide variety of on-highway motorcycles.

            The creation of a new street motorcycle sound measurement procedure was a top recommendation of the 2003 National Summit on Motorcycle Sound, expressed by its Motorcycle Sound Working Group. The AMA organized the National Summit on Motorcycle Sound to pull together riders and user organizations, representatives of the motorcycle manufacturers, the aftermarket industry, racing promoters, government agencies, and others to develop proposals regarding the increasingly controversial issue of excessive motorcycle sound.

            The SAE J2825 standard can be downloaded on the SAE website for a fee of $48.80 - $61.00 at: http://www.sae.org/technical/standards/J2825_200905

            Riding to New Heights in Keystone, Colorado: The program for the AMA International Women & Motorcycling Conference, presented by Harley-Davidson and Buell, boasts seminars and speakers, demo rides and other activities jam packed into a fun four-day event. Held at the stunning Keystone Resort & Conference Center in Keystone, Colorado, on Aug. 19-22, the conference will provide state-of-the-art amenities and world-class riding to greet everyone who signs up. Recently BMW and Ducati joined Harley-Davidson, Buell and Yamaha to provide demo rides that will offer conference attendees the opportunity to sample a variety of their most popular models. Participants can register now at https://home.ama-cycle.org/iwmc/registration/register.aspx or by phone by calling (800) AMA-JOIN. While the event focuses on women riders, men are also welcome to register and participate.

            Source: http://www.amadirectlink.com/news/story.asp?id=1031

            Boston, Massachusetts: In an attempt to silence community concerns regarding excessive motorcycle exhaust sound, the Boston City Council fast-tracked enactment of Docket 0658 (An ordinance regulating the noise levels of motorcycles) on June 3, 2009. A public hearing was held May 26 before the Committee on Government Operations.  The new ordinance mandates that all on-highway motorcycles built after December 31, 1982 must have either OEM (original equipment manufacturer) or aftermarket exhaust systems that comply with the US EPA labeling provision in the Code of Federal Regulations. Violations will result in a $300 fine.

            Source: http://www.cityofboston.gov/cityclerk/hearing/upload_pdfs/docket_pdfs/065805312009.pdf

            The Annual Motorcyclist Advisory Council (MAC) survey is once again seeking on-highway rider feedback and input. Answers provided will be used to help state and federal highway administrators better understand and plan for the needs of motorcyclists. The survey can be accessed at http://tinyurl.com/ovzduo until August 1, 2009.

            The National Off-Highway Vehicle Conservation Council (NOHVCC) has announced it will present free webinars this month dealing with route designations in national forests. The webinars - entitled "Route Designation: How Did We Get Here?" -- will be held on July 21 at 10 a.m., July 22 at noon, and July 28 at 6 p.m. All times are Central Daylight Savings Time. Registration can be done at NOHVCC.org. This is the first in a four-part Public Land Advocacy webinar series. The series is designed to help government agency personnel, off-highway vehicle (OHV) enthusiasts, and other interested parties create and maintain sustainable OHV trails. The workshops in the series were developed in cooperation with the AMA, BlueRibbon Coalition, Motorcycle Industry Council (MIC), Off-Road Business Association, Specialty Vehicle Institute of America (SVIA), and United Four Wheel Drive Associations. Thanks to funding provided by the MIC, SVIA, and the Recreational Off-Highway Vehicle Association, as well as the Yamaha OHV Access Initiative Program, this webinar series is free. For more information and to register for webinar sessions, go to www.NOHVCC.org or call (800) 348-6487.

            Texas: Senate Bill 1967, authored by Sen. John Carona (R-Dallas) and sponsored by Rep. Norma Chavez (D-El Paso), introduces many motorcycle-related changes in the Lone Star State. Included in the bill are 1) funding by Texas Department of Transportation for a public awareness campaign to promote motorcyclist safety and the concept of sharing the road with motorcyclists; 2) changes to the definition of a motorcycle to include certain enclosed three-wheeled passenger vehicles; 3) changes to the licensing requirements for enclosed three-wheeled passenger vehicles; 4) a requirement for all applicants for a motorcycle license or endorsement on a regular or commercial driver's license to provide proof of successful completion of a basic motorcycle operator training course; 5) penalties for failure to yield the right-of-way violations resulting in bodily injury range from $500 to $2,000 while those resulting in serious bodily injury range from $1,000 to $4,000; 6) a prohibition against stopping or detaining a motorcycle operator or passenger solely to determine whether the person has successfully completed a motorcycle operator training and safety course or is covered by a health insurance plan;  7)  a requirement for the Department of Transportation to develop a standard of proof of health insurance coverage for adult motorcycle operators and passengers; and 8) a requirement that all driver education courses or driving safety courses include information on motorcycle awareness, dangers of failure to yield the right-of-way to motorcyclists, and the need to share the road with motorcyclists.  Governor Rick Perry signed the bill into law on June 19; it becomes effective September 1, 2009.

            Florida: Senate Bill 1100, authored by Senate Transportation Committee, changes the definition of a motorcycle to exclude a vehicle in which the operator is enclosed by a cabin, unless the vehicle meets the requirements set forth by the NHTSA for a motorcycle.  The bill also removes the requirement that a motorcycle or moped license tag be permanently affixed horizontally to the ground, but adds a provision that "No device for or method of concealing or obscuring the legibility of the license tag of a motorcycle shall be installed or used."  Governor Charlie Crist signed the bill into law on June 16, 2009.

            Nevada: A bill to require registration and licensing of up to 400,000 off-highway vehicles in Nevada has been vetoed by Gov. Jim Gibbons, who said it calls for new fees and which is not something he supports. Senate Bill 394 was supported by rider groups, power sports dealers, law enforcement agencies, the Nevada Conservation League, the Nevada Association of Counties, the Nevada Cattleman's Association and the Nevada Farm Bureau. The bill language is available on the "Rights" page of AmericanMotorcyclist.com.

            The California State Parks Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Recreation Division is proposing revisions to the safety regulations for Oceano Dunes State Vehicle Recreation Area. The current regulations require a whip and flag for non-street legal vehicles. The new proposal would require a whip and flag for every vehicle in the dunes. This requirement would be consistent with the regulations for Dumont Dunes and Imperial Sand Dunes Recreation Areas, which are popular areas managed by the Bureau of Land Management.

            Source: http://www.ohv.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=25980

           California motorcycle smog test proposal pulled. Thanks to the efforts of thousands of AMA members and other concerned motorcyclists, the sponsor of a proposed California law to require motorcycles to undergo periodic exhaust emissions testing has pulled the bill and it is no longer expected to be heard during the 2009 legislative session. The measure, Senate Bill 435, which was introduced this year by state Sen. Fran Pavley (D-Santa Monica), would have required all model year 2000-and-newer on-road motorcycles with engine displacements of more than 280cc to be tested every two years. Riders also expressed their concern that the bill could require motorcyclists to always have a stock exhaust system, whereas automobile owners are allowed to install aftermarket systems, which can be less costly.

            Michigan: Off-highway motorcyclists now have 27 miles of new trail in the Upper Peninsula thanks to the hard work of the U.P. Sandstormers Motorcycle and ORV Club, in cooperation with the state Department of Natural Resources and the U.S. Forest Service. The new single-track Moss Lake Off-Road Motorcycle Trail is about three miles north of Nahma Junction in the Hiawatha National Forest. It's one mile east of Forest Highway 13 on Forest Road 2231, which is about three miles north of U.S. Highway 2.
            Officials from the Sandstormers, Department of Natural Resources and the Forest Service all stressed during trail opening ceremonies June 27, 2009 that cooperation among those involved was the key to making the trail a reality

            Ohio: Former AMA Board of Directors Chairman Dal Smilie was arraigned in Ohio's Fairfield County court recently on felony charges in connection with evidence discovered by the AMA that Mr. Smilie submitted unsubstantiated expense reimbursement claims over a period of years. Mr. Smilie entered a plea of not guilty in response to a Fairfield County grand jury indictment on charges of theft by deception and receiving stolen property in the matter, which involves more than $100,000. He was free on a $25,000 surety bond and a $10,000 recognizance bond.

            Source: http://www.americanmotorcyclist.com/news/story.asp?id=934

            Missouri: Senate Bill 202, sponsored by Sen. Kurt Schaefer (R-Columbia), would have permitted motorcyclists and passengers 21 years of age or older to make the use of a helmet a personal decision (except on Interstate highways).  It also would have provided that operating a motorcycle, in and of itself, shall not be considered evidence of comparative negligence.  Finally, it stated that when investigating an accident or settling an automobile insurance policy claim, no insurer, agent, producer, or claims adjuster of an insurer shall assign a percentage of fault to a party based upon the sole fact that the party was operating a motorcycle in an otherwise legal manner.  Although overwhelmingly passed in both the Senate and the House, Governor Jay Nixon vetoed SB-202 on July 2, 2009.

            Queensland, Australia: A new series of motorcycle safety initiatives that target novice riders is the latest strategy adopted announced by Transport Minister Rachel Nolan to help combat the state's rising motorcycle fatality rate. The new initiatives will include a Learner Approved Motorcycle Scheme (LAM Scheme) permitting RE class license holders to only ride motorcycles suitable for their level of riding ability and experience. Motorcycle riding is growing in popularity with over 150,000 motorcycles registered in the state. Under the strategy, motorcycle riders are also encouraged to protect themselves by wearing the correct safety gear to reduce the chances of severe injuries if they are involved in a crash. These changes went into effect on July 1, 2009 and failure to comply with the new rules may result in fines and demerit points.

            Source: http://www.motorcyclesafety.qld.gov.au/

July 2009
 

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

          Riding to New Heights in Keystone, Colorado: Program coming together for women's riding conference.  The program for the AMA International Women & Motorcycling Conference, presented by Harley-Davidson and Buell, is coming together nicely, with seminar speakers, demo rides and other activities jammed packed into the four-day event. Held at the stunning Keystone Resort & Conference Center in Keystone, Colorado, on Aug. 19-22, the conference will provide state-of-the-art amenities and world-class riding to greet everyone who signs up. Register before June 15 and you'll receive a BikeBandit.com gift card worth $10: Sign up here.

          Measure would put California's Chappie-Shasta OHV Area under Bureau of Land Management (BLM) control. The AMA applauds the U.S. House of Representatives for approving House Resolution 689 on June 2, which would put the Chappie-Shasta Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) Area in California solely under the control of the federal BLM and streamline the often confusing and redundant special events permitting process faced by local rider and clubs by eliminating the current dual management model. The resolution represents a collaborative effort between the federal lawmaker and the local OHV community, including the Redding Dirt Riders. The measure, introduced by U.S. Rep. Wally Herger (R- Calif.), now goes to the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee for further consideration.

           Source: AmericanMotorcyclist.com/news/story.asp?id=953

          The Annual Motorcyclist Advisory Council (MAC) survey is once again seeking on-highway rider's feedback and input. Answers provided will be used to help state and federal highway administrators better understand and plan for the needs of motorcycle riders. The survey can be accessed at http://tinyurl.com/ovzduo and will be open until August 1, 2009.

          California motorcycle smog test proposal modified by state senate. Thanks to the efforts of thousands of AMA members and other concerned motorcyclists, the sponsor of a proposed California law to require motorcycles to undergo periodic exhaust emissions testing has backed away from the idea. The measure, Senate Bill 435, which was introduced this year by state Sen. Fran Pavley (D-Santa Monica), would have required all model year 2000-and-newer on-road motorcycles with engine displacements of more than 280cc to be tested every two years and will now likely authorize law enforcement to ticket those riders who have removed their catalytic converters. California's motorcycle engine emission standards are already the strictest in the nation and, because of their relatively low yearly mileage totals when compared to other vehicles, the state's motorcycles have the lowest total emissions of any motor vehicle category in California. Riders also expressed their concern that the bill could require motorcyclists to always have a stock exhaust system, whereas automobile owners are allowed to install aftermarket systems, which can be less costly. The emissions testing provision was dropped out of the bill and it cleared the Senate on June 1. The measure is now in the Assembly for consideration, where it could face further amendments.

          Source: AmericanMotorcyclist.com/news/story.asp?id=947

          West Virginia: Recently the Hatfield-McCoy Regional Recreational Authority reported that the trail system has now recovered from earlier flooding in Mingo County, West Virginia, and that it was on back to 100 percent. During the flooding, Hatfield-McCoy lost roughly half of the Rockhouse trail system and nearly half of the Buffalo Mountain trail system. The Authority also reported that it was loaning equipment not being used to repair the trails to the town of Gilbert, which connects to the Rockhouse trail system, to help with flood recovery.  For the latest information visit www.trailsheaven.com.

          Maine: Senate Paper 369, sponsored by Sen. Seth A. Goodall (D- Richmond), bans the sale or use of motor vehicle wheel weights containing lead or mercury on vehicles beginning January 1, 2011 and prohibits the sale of new motor vehicles equipped with such wheel weights after January 1, 2012. The bill was signed into law on May 12th.

         Also, House Paper 329, sponsored by Rep. Patsy Garside Crockett (D-Augusta), establishes that "a person commits the civil violation of motor vehicle violation resulting in death if that person, while operating a motor vehicle and committing a traffic infraction, causes the death of another person." Penalties include a fine of not more than $5,000 and a license suspension of no less than 14 days and up to 4 years. The bill was signed into law May 21. (Maine Public Law, Chapter 182).

          The National Off Highway Vehicle Conservation Council (NOHVCC) will be hosting a workshop webinar series this summer and fall. The series includes four webinar sessions, each of which will last between 2 -3 hours or more, depending on participation. Please help NOHVCC schedule these webinars during the dates and times that will work best. Click on the link below to give NOHVCC your opinion and they will schedule the sessions to be held several times during the summer using the most popular dates and times indicated. To take the poll, visit: Doodle.com/mz5i5dcc4siw2z23.
 

          New Mexico: The White Sands Missile Range is now offering a basic motorcycle safety course, which saves military personnel from having to travel to get the training that the Department of Defense (DOD) requires for them to ride a motorcycle on a military installation. The course is conducted by an Army contractor, which provides motorcycle safety training at all DOD installations. The inaugural course was filled to its 25-rider capacity, the majority of whom were novice riders learning safe riding skills and techniques for the first time.

          Ohio: House Bill 128, sponsored by Rep. Robert Hagan (D-Youngstown) and Senate Bill 65, sponsored by Sen. Tim Schaffer (R-Lancaster), would increase penalties for right-of-way, violations of "assured clear distance ahead" (ie: following too closely) and marked lane violations that result in serious injury or death to another roadway users. Promoted by the Ohio Right-of-Way Working Group, an ad-hoc coalition of motorcyclists and bicyclists, these bills would give law enforcement and the courts new tools to hold all vehicle operators more accountable for their actions. Visit the Ohio StateWatch area of the AMA Rapid Response Center at AmericanMotorcyclist.com/legisltn/rapidresponse.asp to make contact with your state senator and representative in support of these bills.

          Louisiana: Governor Jindal is backing a motorcycle helmet modification law recently approved unanimously by the House Transportation Committee. House Bill 639, sponsored by Rep. James Morris (R-Oil City), would allow adults 21 years of age and older to make their own decision regarding helmet use.

          San Bernardino, California: Yamaha employees support country's busiest national forest. Employees recently volunteered for two important projects to support the San Bernardino National Forest in Southern California and its off-highway vehicle (OHV) trails. Over two days, approximately 100 volunteers including Yamaha employees and family members, planted 1,200 trees and cleaned up numerous miles of ATV and Side-by-Side (SxS) OHV trails.

          Source: ATVScene.com/fyi08/yamaha_0527.html

          Marshall University OHV Recreation Management Course fall semester scholarship applications due by June 15. The Nick J Rahall II Application Transportation Institute, along with the National Off-Highway Vehicle Conservation Council (NOHVCC), is offering a scholarship for the fall semester. 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 Dr. Raymond Busbee at Busbee@marshall.edu. If you have had interest in the past regarding these on-line courses, now is a great time to sign up. 

          Washington State: Trail funds budget raided. During the 2009 legislative session, as part of the nearly $35 billion state operating budget, the Nonhighway and Off-Road Vehicle Activities (NOVA) account was drained. This account was originally created in 1972 by motorized users to provide grants to develop, maintain and manage trails and non-highway road systems statewide based on a study that estimated 4.6 percent of the state fuel tax was generated by off highway motorized use. In lieu of receiving a fuel-tax refund, users asked the Legislature in 1973 to put the money into a special account. Users voluntarily waived their rights to a fuel-tax refund so that they could instead benefit statewide from this program.

          Source: OregonLive.com/environment/index.ssf/2009/05/washington_parks_officials_wor.html

          Missouri: Still no word from the office of Governor Jay Nixon regarding Senate Bill 202. The bill, introduced by Sen. Kurt Schaefer (R-Columbia), would permit motorcycle operators and passengers 21 years of age or older to make the use of a helmet a personal decision, except on the interstate highway system. The bill passed both the House and Senate by comfortable margins and was delivered to the governor on May 29.

          The Maine Legislature, by overwhelming votes in the House and Senate, defeated a bill that would have required motorcycle helmets for all operators and passengers. LD 453, introduced by Rep. Paulette G. Beaudoin (D-Biddeford), was soundly defeated after the Transportation Committee recommended against passage of the bill.

          Vermont: ATV riders seek access to state lands. Natural Resources Secretary Jonathan Wood has proposed criteria that would allow him, for the first time, to designate ATV trails on state land as requested by local riders. The requests would go through careful environmental review and initially the trails would be intended only to connect existing vehicle trails on nearby private land or town roads. Most of the trail links would be short, he said.

          Source: BurlingtonFreePress.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=200990606020

          New Jersey: Legislation introduced by Sen. Shirley Turner (D-Lawrenceville) would require the state Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to "designate three sites on State-owned land where all-terrain vehicles, dirt bikes, and snowmobiles may be used." However, if the DEP is unable to designate three suitable areas for motorized recreation, it is simply required to file a report with the Governor and the legislature explaining why appropriate locations could not be made available. The complete text is available on the "Rights" page of AmericanMotorcyclist.com.

          Nevada: A bill to require registration and licensing of up to 400,000 off-highway vehicles in Nevada has passed out of the Assembly Ways and Means Committee, but faces a likely veto from Gov. Jim Gibbons because it would impose a $20-$30 registration fee on ATVs, motorcycles, dune buggies and snowmobiles. Senate Bill 394 is supported by rider groups, power sports dealers, law enforcement agencies, the Nevada Conservation League, the Nevada Association of Counties, the Nevada Cattleman's Association and the Nevada Farm Bureau. The bill language is available on the "Rights" page of AmericanMotorcyclist.com. 

Source: www.rubicontrailfoundation.org

June 2009

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

May 2009

U.S. House Considering Bill Detrimental to OHV Riding.

The Chairman of the U.S. House Committee on Natural Resources has scheduled a hearing on May 5 to consider H.R. 980, the Northern Rockies Ecosystem Protection Act (NREPA). This legislation was introduced by Rep. Carolyn Maloney (D-NY). It will designate 24 million acres as Wilderness and components of the National Wilderness Preservation System in Idaho, Montana, Oregon, Washington, and Wyoming. This Wilderness designation will make the land off-limits to off-highway riders.

With the Wilderness bill (Omnibus Public Land Management Act) recently signed into law, that prohibited off-highway vehicle (OHV) use on over 2 million acres, this Congress now feels emboldened to continue pressing for passage of even more Wilderness bills that would take away additional OHV trails enjoyed responsibly by your friends and family.

We need your help to stop H.R. 980 in its tracks. The fastest way to reach your Representative is to call them. You can find contact information for your elected officials by entering your zip code on AmericanMotorcyclist.com, clicking on "Rights," then "Issues and Legislation." Additionally, a prewritten e-mail is available for you to send to your Representative immediately by following the "Take Action" option and entering your information.

To find a list of members serving on the U.S. House Committee on Natural Resources, please click here.

We must remain vigilant. If this bill were signed into law, the effect on the OHV community would be devastating for generations. What's next - motorcycles in general?

Please contact your Representative immediately and urge them to oppose H.R. 980.

April 2009

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

March 2009

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

            Omnibus Public Lands Bill: The U.S. House of Representatives could vote as early as next week on a wide-ranging bill that could shut off-highway motorcyclists and all-terrain vehicle riders out of more than 2 million acres of public land. The measure, Senate Bill 22, also known as the Omnibus Public Lands Bill, is actually a package of more than 160 bills that were melded together to create a single bill of more than 1,300 pages in length.       

            Every AMA member, off-highway motorcyclist, ATV rider and everyone who supports responsible outdoor recreation is urged to immediately contact their Congressional representative and ask them to reject this bill. The measure should be defeated because it unreasonably bans motorized recreation on 2.1 million acres of public land and inappropriately designates it as Wilderness. Also the procedure used for fast-tracking this bill through the U.S. Senate and House violates the spirit of open and democratic government. For the full release and a link to a rapid response letter on this issue go to: http://www.amadirectlink.com/news/story.asp?id=592 

            An interview series with the AMA's President and CEO Rob Dingman has been posted to the AMA's website. In it he discusses the challenges, and opportunities, that lie ahead for the motorcycling community. In the first of the three-part series, Dingman discusses how the AMA and the AMA's sister organization the ATVA (All-Terrain Vehicle Association) are fighting to preserve OHV (off-highway vehicle) access to America's public lands. Part two discusses the challenge of excessive sound, and part three (to be released Feb. 11) explains the AMA's comprehensive approach to rider safety, helmet laws and rider education To see the full text of the interviews, go to: www.AmericanMotorcyclist.com and select News.

            Motorcycle tariff taken off table in beef trade dispute. The U.S. trade representative has decided against imposing any tariffs on certain motorcycles imported from Europe in a trade dispute over beef. The AMA, its members, the Motorcycle Industry Council (MIC), individual manufacturers, dealers, and others had contacted the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative opposing the idea of possibly imposing a 100 percent import duty on certain European goods -- including motorcycles with engine displacements between 51cc and 500cc.

            The proposal was put together in retaliation to the 27-member European Union's continuing import ban on American beef treated with growth hormones. EU officials haven't lifted that 20-year-old ban despite a World Trade Organization order to end it.

            Source: http://www.amadirectlink.com/news/story.asp?id=564

            The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) is soliciting funds from state departments of transportation to help fuel the Motorcycle Crash Causation Study. The Transportation Pooled Fund Program is an opportunity to augment federal initiatives by requesting additional monies from states that may have a surplus in certain budget areas. A request is made to the program when researchers find themselves unable to undertake a study because of financial restrictions.

            The FHWA is requesting states to contribute a minimum of $15,000 per year for three years with the desired level of funding at $50,000 per year for three years. The total required commitment from states is $1.5 million. New York and Texas have already promised a total of $225,000, but the solicitation closes March 31, 2009. 

            In an effort to support this initiative, the AMA is asking individuals to request that their local and state transportation officials contribute to the pooled fund. The solicitation details and a description of the Motorcycle Crash Causation Study can be found at www.pooledfund.org, solicitation number 1221.

             New York and Pennsylvania recently announced that the Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) has been awarded the contract to run these state's motorcycle safety programs. The MSF programs, which deliver training to more than 100,000 students annually, are also used by the Armed Services to train military personnel worldwide. The MSF is a not-for-profit organization sponsored by BMW, BRP, Ducati, Harley-Davidson, Honda, Kawasaki, KTM, Piaggio, Suzuki, Triumph, Victory and Yamaha. For RiderCourseSM locations, call 800.446.9227 or visit www.msf-usa.org.

            Stimulus Bill to include tax incentive to purchase electric motorcycles? An effort is underway to include a tax credit for purchasers of electric vehicles. To comment on the provisions and let legislators know whether or not you believe it's a good idea go to http://action.pluginamerica.org/p/dia/action/public/?action_KEY=516 to send a letter to your representative.

            The AMA recently wrote to the New Hampshire House Transportation Committee in opposition to the proposed on-highway motorcycle exhaust system legislation, House Bill 95. A update on the legislature's website indicates that the bill is "inexpedient to legislate."  Quoting from the February 6 House Record: "This bill would create an economic hardship on motorcycle riders and also on the State of New Hampshire with loss of millions on this summer event in the Lakes Region. Also, the bill prohibits adding after market equipment in one place and in another place it mandates adding the after market equipment."

            The Motorcycle Industry Council (MIC) also weighed in and requested the proposal be delayed until early spring when a new stationary sound test procedure for on-highway motorcycles will be available. This test procedure, SAE J2825, is currently being finalized and will provide a quick, easy, economical, and science-based tool for accurately identifying motorcycles with excessively loud exhaust systems. 

            Source: http://www.gencourt.state.nh.us/house/caljourns/calendars/2009/houcal2009_11.html

            Saint Paul, MN: Trail-based recreation enthusiasts welcomed a recent court decision rejecting the Sierra Club's challenge to the 2004 Revised Superior National Forest Plan. The All Terrain Vehicle Association of Minnesota (ATVAM), along with the BlueRibbon Coalition (BRC), both recreation advocacy groups, intervened in the case on the side of the Forest Service. The lawsuit included challenges to the analysis of potential impacts to the Boundary Waters Canoe Wilderness Area, as well as the accuracy of the road and trail inventory used by the Forest Service. The decision ruled in favor of the Forest Service and concluded that the agency had not acted arbitrarily or capriciously in adopting the broad prescriptions of the Revised Forest Plan.

            Source: http://www.sharetrails.org/releases/media/?story=629

            The National Cooperative Highway Research Program (NCHRP) Volume 22: A

Guide for Addressing Collisions Involving Motorcycles, has been published by the Transportation Research Board.  This guide is part of Report 500- Guidance for Implementation of the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) Strategic Highway Safety Plan. AASHTO's goal is to move away from independent activities of engineers, law enforcement, educators, judges and highway safety specialists and toward a more coordinated effort. An electronic version can be found at: http://onlinepubs.trb.org/onlinepubs/nchrp/nchrp_rpt_500v22.pdf

            County sues to ensure Camp Rock Road access. San Bernardino County is suing the federal government in hopes of establishing its right-of-way on a road crossing federal land between Lucerne Valley and Daggett. The county is seeking to officially establish its ownership of Camp Rock Road, a county-maintained road that covers about 42 miles between Lucerne Valley and Daggett. In April 2003 the county filed an application with the U.S. Bureau of Land Management (BLM) for a "recordable disclaimer," which would establish its right-of-way on the road and give the county a legal record of its ownership. The application has never been processed, so the county is now asking for a court order that would force the BLM to proceed.

            Source: http://www.desertdispatch.com/news/county_5313___article.html/road_federal.html

            Americans for Responsible Recreational Access (ARRA) recently joined with 25 other recreation groups including the AMA in urging House and Senate leaders to support including $300 million in funding for local trail projects through the Recreational Trails Program (RTP) in the economic-stimulus package being considered for action in early 2009. The additional funding would be separate from and in addition to regular funding authorized for the program.

            To view the ARRA letter, go to: http://www.arra-access.com/arra/economic_stimulus_letter.html. RTP projects are ideal for economic stimulus as a distribution system for the funds is already in place. Many are ready for construction immediately. They are typically small scale ($50,000 or less). The RTP leverages federal funds with state, local, private and in-kind matches. To send your own letter, visit http://www.arra-access.com/campaign/advocacy_rtp_stimulus        

            Powersports Industry is greatly troubled by the new Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) lead levels requirements for children's products. The Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA), scheduled to take effect February 10, was intended to apply to children's toys but will also apply to smaller ATV's and motorcycles unless a specific exemption for these products is granted. View the AMA letter outlining its concerns to the CPSC at http://www.amadirectlink.com/news/story.asp?id=595. The agency has a number of rulemaking proposals under way intended to provide guidance on the new lead limit requirements. However, the comment deadline occurs after the Act's effective date. Visit the CPSC website at www.cpsc.gov for more information.

            The Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office (RCO) is trying to improve its website so that residents can access information more easily. The RCO creates and maintains opportunities for recreation (motorized and non-motorized) statewide, protects the best of the state's wild lands, and contributes to the state's efforts to recover threatened salmon populations. During the 2005-2007 biennium, the office managed the award of more than $305 million in grants for more than 1,000 projects. Go to http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=SLIz4panYgZN_2bIG9DAJygA_3d_3d to take the survey.

            Trail riders are encouraged by a recent decision on the Mississippi National Forest. Motorcyclists and other off-highway-vehicle users are optimistic their voices will be more clearly heard in the on-going development of a U.S. Forest Service plan that outlines the future use of the Mississippi National Forest. In response to an administrative appeal filed by the Memphis Motorcycle Club (MMC) and the BlueRibbon Coalition (BRC) with the support of the AMA, the Forest Service has withdrawn a Travel Management Plan for the Mississippi National Forest. In a statement, the Forest Service said the move would allow the "consideration of additional analysis to be documented in the project record."

            The Forest Service sought to implement the direction of the national 2005 Travel Management Rule, which requires units of the National Forest System to transition to a managed system of vehicle use on designated roads, trails and areas. The September 2008 Mississippi Forests travel plan decision designated approximately 127 miles of roads for off-highway vehicle (OHV) use, as well as approximately 144 miles of motorized trails, but refused to even consider for official designation the hundreds of miles of trails that have previously been created and traveled under prior "open" forest management but never included in the forests' formal transportation system.
            Full release: http://www.amadirectlink.com/news/story.asp?id=587

February 2009

The AMA will celebrate its 85th anniversary year in 2009 with a number of activities and events, culminating with AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days, July 24-26, at the Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course in Lexington, Ohio. AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days, the proceeds of which benefit the AMA's Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum, has grown to become America's grandest celebration of motorcycling heritage, and features numerous activities inspired by all eras. In addition to activities tied to the AMA's 85th anniversary, the weekend will be loaded with highlights, including the world's largest motorcycle swap meet, demo rides of current production bikes, motorcycling seminars, bike shows, stunt shows, the new product Manufacturers' Midway, club corrals that feature both marque and regional clubs, and guided rides through the rolling Ohio countryside.

            Go to: http://www.motorcyclemuseum.org/85thParade.asp for the full release.

Harley-Davidson and Buell will once again be presenting sponsors of the 2009 AMA International Women & Motorcycling Conference in Keystone, Colorado. The AMA reports that it has seen an increase in attendance at the Women and Motorcycling Conference over the years, and anticipates that it will double at the 2009 event with more than 2,200 participants. The conference will have workshops and an opportunity to test-ride new bikes, shop for gear and attend a number of events.

            Source: http://www.womenandmotorcycling.com/womenc/index.asp 

Florida: The State Supreme Court, in a ruling that allows a liability lawsuit to proceed, found that a waiver signed by a child’s parent is unenforceable. The ruling may endanger participation by minors in many forms of commercial activities, including motorsports. For most purposes, Florida law defines children as anyone under 18. The entire ruling can be viewed at: http://www.floridasupremecourt.org/decisions/2008/sc07-1739.pdf

Lone Pine, Calif: A current Inyo County Wilderness proposal is facing local opposition.  At a recently held Board of Supervisors meeting, local residents voiced their strong opposition to five new Wilderness designations being considered for Southern Inyo County. The meeting was held in reference to a request from the California Wilderness Coalition to Senator Dianne Feinstein to add these additional areas. It was noted by numerous speakers that Inyo County is already the site of 28 percent of the designated Wilderness areas statewide. Many speakers also expressed concerns about the struggling local mining industry, as well as the potential loss of historically enjoyed motorized recreation opportunities.

There were no representatives from the California Wilderness Coalition or Senator Feinstein’s office in attendance at the meeting, and not a single speaker was in favor of the proposal.

            Source: Inyo Register: http://www.inyoregister.com/content/view/120553/1/

New York City, N.Y: The City Council has once again delayed final approval of a bill that would require motorcycles, and no other motor vehicles, to have stock exhaust systems. The AMA expressed disappointment that the measure languished in the Council for two years and then, in a surprise move, was revived just a week before the scheduled final vote, before once again being delayed. If passed, motorcyclists caught without an EPA-stamped exhaust system would face fines of up to $1,000 for a first offense and temporary forfeiture of the motorcycle until the fine is paid. A second offense would result in a fine of up to $2,500 and permanent forfeiture of the motorcycle. AMA staff recently spoke with the council’s Policy staff to reinforce rider concerns and to explore alternatives to the measure. To see the full text of the measure, go to http://tinyurl.com/6mo2yo.

            Source: http://www.amadirectlink.com/news/2008/nycbillissue.asp

San Diego, Calif: The 2009 San Diego Off Road SuperShow has been cancelled.  After presenting successful shows in 2007 and 2008 the Off-Road Business Association (ORBA) has announced the cancellation of their 2009 event, which was to be held at the Del Mar Fairgrounds on February 7 and 8. Citing the unprecedented global economic downturn, ORBA stated that it is in the best interest of its members and the off-road industry as a whole to cancel the event, and apologized for any inconvenience that the cancellation may cause.

Source: http://www.orba.biz/

Santa Cruz, Calif: A long running lawsuit challenging the legality of the California helmet law has been dismissed. The lawsuit, originally filed on November 9, 2006, (Case No. CV 155682), was last heard on May 19-20, 2008 in the Santa Cruz Superior Court. After hearing evidence Judge Robert Atack ruled in favor of the California Highway Patrol (CHP). According to ABATE of California, Inc. Executive Director Tim Tennimon, Sr., “The case was dismissed. There is no further avenue of appeal on this lawsuit. It is finished.”

Suffolk County, N.Y.: A Suffolk County legislator is asking his colleagues to reject a $25,500 motorcycle safety grant because the money would be used for checkpoints. Legislator Jack Eddington said the grant should only be accepted if the money could be used for something other than checkpoints. Eddington, who rides a Honda Shadow, believes the checkpoints are a form of harassment. The grant comes from the Governor's Traffic Safety Committee.           

            Source: http://www.newsday.com/services/newspaper/printedition/thursday/news/ny-k5960428dec11,0,4657737.story 

Hollister, Calif: The Bureau of Land Management's Hollister field office, which has been in operation since the 1980’s and now manages 284,000 acres of public land, recently announced it would be moving its operational base to Marina in the coming years. More than 30 employees, many of whom live in Hollister, will be affected by the relocation, though it could take up to three years before the move is made. Hollister Field Manager Rick Cooper said the planned move, which is necessitated by a need for more space and a desire to move operations closer to 7,200 acres of BLM land at the former Fort Ord, still needs to be approved by the agency's national operations center in Denver, CO.            

            Source: http://www.pinnaclenews.com/news/contentview.asp?c=251689

New Hampshire: House Bill 95, introduced by Rep. Judith Day (D-North Hampton), would prohibit all motorcycle exhaust system modifications and the use of after-market equipment, and require all motorcycles to be equipped with tachometers.  It would also lower the permissible sound level for all motorcycles to 95 dB(A) measured 20 inches from the exhaust system at a 45 degree angle.  Fines for violations would also be increased.

            Source: http://www.gencourt.state.nh.us/legislation/2009/HB0095.html

North Carolina: A new North Carolina license tag is set to go into production for motorcycle riders who want to help fund the non-profit Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation (BRPF). Supporters of the proposal have nearly reached the required minimum threshold of 300 bike owners who have committed to buying the special Blue Ridge Parkway plate. BRPF Director Houck Medford said a similar tag for cars has raised about $500,000 from the sale of more than 27,000 Blue Ridge Parkway tags.

            Source: http://www.wral.com/news/state/story/4183035/

Asheville, N.C: The Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation's (PBTF) Ride for Kids® program broke all of its previous fundraising records for childhood brain tumor research in 2008, bringing in more than $5.2 million during its 25th anniversary year. The nation's top group was Team Tyler, powered by American Collectors Insurance, which brought $64,355 to the Philadelphia Ride for Kids. 

The PBTF has funded more than 50 research institutions around the world, including its own prestigious PBTF Institute programs. All makes and brands of motorcycles are welcome at the Ride for Kids. Events will take place in 39 cities in 2009, including new events in Jacksonville, Fla., Indianapolis and Middle Tennessee (Franklin). More information is available at http://www.rideforkids.org/.

Knoxville, Tenn: American Honda recently announced that it has cancelled the 2009 Honda Hoot motorcycle rally. This June would have marked the 16th annual Honda Hoot, which moved to Knoxville from Asheville, North Carolina, in 2001. Honda cited the current economic crunch for its decision to cancel the annual motorcycle rally, which has attracted over 15,000 motorcycle enthusiasts to the event in recent years, and an estimated quarter of a million visitors during the past 15 years.

            Source: http://hrca.honda.com/Articles/Article.aspx?xml=Articles/News/Hot_News_Article_50057.xml

Motorists' changing habits spur call for gas tax increases to pay for construction, public transportation and other programs. With motorists driving less and increased fuel efficiency among many newer vehicles, fuel taxes are not raising enough revenue to keep pace according to a new report. As a result a federal commission that oversees financing for transportation is talking about increasing the federal fuel tax rate by up to 50 percent unless the government can devise other ways to raise these funds.

The National Commission on Surface Transportation Infrastructure Financing is the second group to call for increasing the current 18.4 cents per gallon federal tax on gasoline and the 24.4 cents per gallon tax on diesel. The commission will also recommend that states raise their individual fuel taxes and make greater use of tolls and other fees for rush hour drivers. According to the draft of the financing commission's recommendations, the nation needs to move to a new system that taxes motorists according to how much they use roads.

A study by the Transportation Research Board of the National Academies estimated that the annual gap between revenues and the investment needed to improve highway and transit systems was about $105 billion in 2007, and will increase to $134 billion in 2017 under current trends.

            Source: http://financecommission.dot.gov/index.htm

Motorcycle Satisfaction Jumps To New High. A recent survey suggests that if you rode a motorcycle in 2008, chances are you loved the experience. The J.D. Power and Associates' 2008 Motorcycle Competitive Information Study shows overall satisfaction with the motorcycle ownership experience has increased for a sixth consecutive year to a record-high level. Overall motorcycle ownership satisfaction averaged 814 points on a 1,000-point scale in 2008, up 5 points from 2007.

Now in its 11th year, the study measures owner satisfaction with new motorcycles by examining five major components of the overall ownership experience: product, quality, cost of ownership, sales and service. The study also found that the industry continues to struggle with attracting younger, first-time motorcycle buyers.

            Source: http://www.wdsu.com/automotive/18343685/detail.html

Number of Women Riders is Up. Preliminary data collected by the ongoing 2008 Motorcycle Industry Council Owner Survey suggests that a greater percentage of women are taking to two-wheeling. Through the first three quarters of 2008, the survey found a 29 percent increase in the percentage of female owners, compared to 2003. That last survey found that 9.6 percent of owners were women. Over the first nine months of 2008, the number had grown to 12.4 percent.

Source: http://www.womenridersnow.com/

January 2009

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


     The AMA is proud to announce Stan Simpson as the 2008 AMA Motorcyclist of the Year. Simpson, who is the current AMA Board of Directors Chairman, was honored with the inaugural AMA Motorcyclist of the Year distinction in conjunction with the quarterly meeting of the AMA Board of Directors in Irvine, California in December.
     The AMA Motorcyclist of the Year is the person who has had the most profound impact on motorcycling in a single calendar year. Under Simpson’s leadership, many of the AMA's professional racing properties were sold to an organization capable of elevating the sport, the menu of member benefits was expanded, the American Motorcyclist magazine was redesigned, the Association’s Government Relations Department was expanded and the AMA’s fiscal house was put in order. Visit http://www.amadirectlink.com/news/2008/StanSimpsonNominated.asp for the complete announcement.


     AMA protests possible 100 percent tariffs on certain European motorcycles. The AMA recently announced that it has written to the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative opposing a plan that could double the cost of some on- and off-road European motorcycles imported into the United States. To read the full text of the letter the AMA submitted to the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative, go to http://www.amadirectlink.com/news/2008/amatarifffight.asp.


     A recently released U.S. Forest Service study shows that fewer Americans are using their National Forests as a venue for recreation. Forest Service officials seemed surprised by this news and uncertain as to why this is the case. The statistics are indeed troubling.
     The Forest Service began conducting the National Visitor Use Monitoring (NVUM) program in 2000. The statistically rigorous surveys of visitation levels use a five-year rotation schedule. The NVUM program found 204.8 million visitors annually in the period 2000-2003 and 178.6 million for 2003-2007, a decline of 13 percent. When compared to the ever-increasing U.S. population, the proportion of Americans visiting our national forests is falling even faster.
     Every national forest is slated to collect visitor use information again from October 2004 through September 2009. The entire survey can be accessed at http://www.fs.fed.us/recreation/programs/nvum/nvum_national_summary_fy2007.pdf.


     Johnson Valley, CA - The Department of the Navy is in the initial stages of preparing an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for acquisition of lands contiguous to the Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center in Twentynine Palms, California. This EIS will consider a range of reasonable alternatives for the proposed action sufficient to meet Marine Expeditionary Brigade training requirements.
     For more information visit http://www.29palms.usmc.mil/ (click on land acquisition study). Written comments may be submitted to: 29Palms Training Land/Airspace Acquisition Project, MAGTFTC, MCAGCC, Bldg. 1554, Box 788104, Twentynine Palms, CA 92278-8104 or via e-mail to SMBPLMSWEBPAO@usmc.mil. Comments must be received by Jan 31, 2009 for consideration in the Draft EIS.


     Eagle, ID - The Eagle police department has decided to test electric scooters on a trial basis. The department recently took possession of one scooter and the mayor will be using another. They are on loan from High Desert Harley-Davidson which hopes to raise public awareness and promote the use of these vehicles. The scooters have a 35-55 mile range on a single charge and use a standard 110/220-volt power outlet.
     Source: http://www.idahostatesman.com/165/story/592711.html


     Myrtle Beach, SC - Although a request for an immediate injunction against the city’s recently-enacted helmet and noise ordinances has failed a local couple's lawsuit will be allowed to proceed. The state's current helmet law allows anyone 21 years of age or older to choose whether to wear a helmet while riding a motorcycle, while the city law requires anyone riding within city limits to wear a helmet. In a related matter, a new city law requiring an EPA label on exhaust systems is said to be in conflict with the state law and therefore may be unconstitutional.
     Source: http://www.myrtlebeachonline.com/news/local/story/695402.html


     Austin, TX - The Texas Department of Transportation has launched a new web site that provides an opportunity for motorcyclists to notify department officials of a road hazard. The web site also lists the response that the motorcyclist should expect from such a notification. To visit, go to http://www.txdot.gov/; click on “Safety”, then “Traffic Safety Tips”, then “Motorcycles”.


     The Tahoe National Forest is currently proposing the closure of over 2,400 miles of existing forest roads & trails, which are vital for recreation as well as access for management to promote forest health. These trails lead to vistas, scenic byways, secluded lakes, creeks and primitive camping. None of these trails have been proven to affect water quality, habitats, or plants.
     This campaign is supported by Save The Trails, Friends of Forest Hills OHV Trails, Friends of Tahoe Forest Access, Nevada County Woods Riders, Friends of the High Lakes, The Rubicon Trail Foundation, California Off Road Vehicle Association (CORVA), the California Association of Four Wheel Drive Clubs (Cal4WD) and others. Visit their letter generator at http://www.savethetrails.us/Default.aspx?PetitionID=22 to make your voice heard.


     Five new miles of single-track trails have just been opened on the Buffalo Mountain Trail System, with another 15 miles slated for completion by the end of the year. These additions bring the total trail mileage of Buffalo Mountain to more than 70 miles. It also means that Buffalo Mountain now has the most single-track trail mileage in the Hatfield-McCoy Trail System. The trail system also played host to the first annual Fisher's ATV Reunion.

     Canada - Motorcyclists across Canada are outraged to learn of Private Members Bill 117 that would amend the Ontario Highway Traffic Act to make it illegal for anyone to operate a motorcycle with a passenger who is under 14 years of age. The bill was introduced by Helena Jaczek, a Member of the Provincial Parliament (MPP), who feels that there is enough risk to merit such a law, but others disagree.
     The Canada Safety Council, a national, charitable organization that promotes safety in all areas of Canadian life, and sponsors more motorcycle rider training than any other Canadian organization, says that there is simply no information to warrant such a ban. Go to http://www.motorcycling.ca/ for more information on this proposal.


     Brussels - ACEM (Association des Constructeurs Européens de Motocycles), the motorcycle industry in Europe, recently presented its strategy to shape the future of motorcycling. On the occasion of its 5th Annual Conference, ACEM outlined an extensive set of measures ensuring that the motorcycles and scooters of tomorrow will be both cleaner and safer.
     The European motorcycle and moped market has been growing constantly over the last six years, mainly pushed by an increased mobility demand in European cities. In spite of the looming economic recession, which is expected to also affect the motorcycle and scooter market, ACEM members believe the time is right to commit to new environmental objectives, to maximize the market opportunities and further promoting the motorcycle with authorities as a mobility alternative, in particular in the urban context.


     A new organization has been formed by the major manufacturers and distributors of recreational off-highway vehicles (ROVs) to promote their safe and responsible use. The Recreational Off-Highway Vehicle Association (ROHVA) received American National Standards Institute (ANSI) accreditation on November 3, 2008 to develop a standard for the equipment, configuration and performance requirements of ROVs. In addition, ROHVA has published Safety Rules for these increasingly popular off-highway vehicles.
     An ROV, sometimes broadly referred to as a “side-by-side” or “Utility Type Vehicle” (UTV), is a motorized off-highway vehicle designed to travel on four or more non-highway tires, with a steering wheel, non-straddle seating, seat belts, an occupant protective structure, and engine displacement up to 1,000cc.
     For further details visit www.rohva.org.


     O. L. “Leff” Moore has been posthumously awarded the 2008 Hulet Hornbeck Award by American Trails. Mr. Moore was the “father” of the Hatfield-McCoy Recreation Area. He was the co-organizer and energizer of the original development effort. No one has contributed more to the realization of the Hatfield-McCoy Recreation Area than Mr. Moore, who passed away in the spring of 2004.
     The Hatfield-McCoy Trail System is a developing 2,000-mile motorized trail system (500+ miles presently developed) in southern West Virginia that generates more than 100,000 user days a year (as of 2007) and over $800,000 in permit fees. Through the creation of an extensive public-private partnership, the public trails are located on the vast tracts of corporate-owned land in the nine-county project area. The trails are professionally designed and managed to provide a unique experience for off-highway motorcycle and all-terrain vehicle riders. In addition, equestrians, mountain bicyclists, hikers, and other trail users have also utilized the trail system. The Hatfield-McCoy Trail System has put southern West Virginia on the map as a highly desirable tourism destination, boosting the region’s economy. The total economic impact of the Hatfield-McCoy Trail System in 2005 was an increase in output of $7,776,116, an increase in income of $2,789,036 and the generation of 146 new jobs.
     Mr. Moore was a native West Virginian born in Putnam County. He was a graduate of Winfield High School and attended West Virginia State College. He was a well-respected advocate for the recreational vehicle industry and the safe operation of recreational vehicles, most notably ATV’s, representing local, state and national interests in his role as executive director of the West Virginia Recreational Vehicle Association.


     Chris McNeil, the statewide Trails Safety and Education Coordinator for the Wyoming State Trails Program, has been recognized as the 2008 State of the Art Technology Award winner by American Trails at their recent National Trails Symposium held in Little Rock, Arkansas.
     McNeil received this award for his ATV Safety Simulator. The device hydraulically simulates angular movements of an ATV traveling uphill, downhill, transverse hills left and right, cornering, or a combination of movements, and has proven to be a popular tool with new riders. Along with riding skills, all elements of pre-riding safety (proper safety gear, weight vs. machine size, fit, hazards of riding double, etc.) are emphasized. Land use ethics training is also a big part of the materials presented. For the full press release, visit http://www.AmericanTrails.org/.


     The 18th annual Ride to Work Day has been moved to June 15, 2009, the third Monday of the month. The Federation Internationale de Motocyclisme (FIM) has endorsed this day, and is promoting the 'Third Monday in June' worldwide as the annual Ride to Work Day. For questions and further information, please visit http://www.ridetowork.org.


     The AMA invites nominations for the prestigious AMA Road Rider of the Year award for 2008. The award embodies the spirit of AMA Road Riding through involvement in AMA clubs, leadership in road riding activities, community involvement, protecting motorcyclists' rights and supporting the Association as a whole. Nominations will be accepted through January 31, 2009. Nominees who may have been considered previously for this award are still eligible; however, they must be resubmitted each year. For more information, visit the AMA’s website at www.amadirectlink.com or e-mail dhembroff@ama-cycle.org.

December 2008

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

     The American Motorcyclist Association (AMA), which represents more than 300,000 active members as the nation's leading advocacy organization for motorcyclists' rights, issued the following statement from AMA President and CEO Rob Dingman with respect to the national election results:
     "The American Motorcyclist Association congratulates President-elect Barack Obama and Vice President-elect Joe Biden on their historic victory. America's voters have spoken, and they are demanding fundamental change and accountability from our elected representatives.
     "Motorcyclists also demand change and accountability. This nation's estimated 10 million riders currently face critical issues such as road access, health insurance discrimination and the right to responsibly enjoy our nation's public lands.
     "In a time when more Americans, young and old, are discovering the fun, convenience, economy and utility of motorcycling, the AMA is anxious to begin working with the administration of President-elect Obama to ensure that the rights and futures of all motorcyclists are protected.
     "In addition, the AMA will be working with our representatives -- newly elected or re-elected -- at all levels of government, and will be making every effort to assist them in understanding the concerns and needs of their motorcycling constituents."


     Leaders from the American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) and other national organizations met in Las Vegas on November 6 to discuss a variety of land-use issues affecting off-highway vehicle (OHV) recreation. The meeting was held in conjunction with the annual Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) convention in Las Vegas.
     In addition to the AMA and the AMA's sister organization, the All-Terrain Vehicle Association (ATVA), stakeholder organizations represented included the American Council of Snowmobile Associations, Americans For Responsible Recreational Access, the BlueRibbon Coalition, the Motorcycle Industry Council, the National Off-Highway Vehicle Conservation Council, the Off-Road Business Association, the Recreational Off-Highway Vehicle Association, the Specialty Vehicle Institute of America, and Tread Lightly!
     This is the third forum the groups have held in 2008. This meeting focused on the recent federal election results and their impact on recreational access issues, as well as the priorities and challenges facing OHV recreation in the 111th Congress. Also discussed were strategies to address the upcoming Recreational Trails Program reauthorization, and the on-going U.S. Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management Route Designation process.
     The organizations represented believe that it is useful to periodically discuss and explore areas where they share a common interest. Recognizing that each organization has a separate mission in representing its distinct membership, communicating with one another serves to strengthen advocacy efforts for OHV recreation.
     "The AMA greatly values its partnerships a great deal," said AMA Vice President for Government Relations Ed Moreland. "Working together is the only way the AMA and our partners can meet the public lands access challenges before us. Meeting and sharing ideas and resources helps us address these challenges with a united front, and it amplifies our collective voice when advocating for continued responsible access to public lands."


     Utah - According to a recent article in The Salt Lake Tribune, on October 31 the U.S. Bureau of Land Management (BLM) released five of six long-range management plans that will open 80 percent of 11 million acres in southern and eastern Utah to oil and gas drilling and designate 20,000 miles of motorized recreation routes.
     The BLM is acting on order from Congress, which in 2001 determined that plans, some of them 30 years old, needed re-crafting to reflect new priorities, including increased demand from oil and gas developers and explosive growth in off-road recreation.
     In May, a Bush administration study re-emphasized policies established in 2005 that would speed carbon-based energy development with minimal restraints unless federal public-land managers found it "absolutely necessary" to preserve other resources. The directive urged the BLM to find ways around "obstacles" to drilling, which the administration identified as well-established environmental-protection law, municipal development, private-property concerns, wildlife and national parks.
     The Moab, Kanab, Vernal, Richfield and Price district plans are now final. Only the Monticello plan remains pending, waiting for state officials to sign off.
     In a Thursday announcement, the BLM called the achievement "a collaborative effort in balanced stewardship for the future" that includes protections for environmentally sensitive areas while supporting energy resources.
     The agency said 53 percent of the more than 8 million acres open to oil and gas leasing would be subject to stricter environmental controls than before the plans were drawn, with about 18 percent of the 11 million acres unavailable to leasing under any circumstances. Less than a half of 1 percent of the public lands would be protected for their special beauty and solitude.
     The resource plans came in slightly past their Sept. 30 fiscal-year deadline and cost $35 million, said Don Ogaard, lead planner for the BLM's Utah office. Though 87 protests numbering several hundred pages were filed during a 30-day period, all of them were dismissed or resolved to the BLM's satisfaction, he said.
     During public-comment periods, the plans drew fire from all sides. Oil-industry representatives complained of too many restrictions on exploration, and county officials agreed. Conservationists objected to drilling in sensitive lands and laying out so many trails for motorized recreation because OHV users represent a small minority of those who visit the area. Off-roaders disliked the new directive to close Utah's BLM lands to cross-country travel in favor of a trail system. The Environmental Protection Agency criticized the Price, Moab and Vernal plans for inadequate air-quality reviews, lack of analysis of OHV impacts and a failure to evaluate energy extraction's effects on global climate disruption.


     West Virginia – According to The Charleston Gazette, when the number of riders using the Hatfield-McCoy Trails begins to slack off after the Thanksgiving holiday, work will begin on the most ambitious trail-development program ever planned for the 400-mile network of ATV and off-road motorcycle paths.
     In addition to the six trail systems now open in five Southern West Virginia counties, trail officials hope to open two new ones next year in Wayne and Lincoln counties.
     The Wayne County system has already been mapped out on property managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers at East Lynn Lake. Hatfield-McCoy officials recently reached an agreement with landowners to examine and begin mapping a site near Harts for the Lincoln County system.
     "We need the Corps of Engineers to sign on with the Wayne County system, and we need the landowners to sign on with the one in Lincoln County," said John Fekete, the trail system's deputy director, on the plan to move forward with construction of the two new trail loops.
     Sites for trailhead facilities for each of the two new Hatfield-McCoy systems have yet to be determined, according to Fekete.
     "What we'd like to develop are trail systems of 80 to 100 miles - enough mileage to keep trail riding interesting for people spending a few days at an area," said Fekete.
     In addition to the two systems being eyed for possible opening next year, the Hatfield-McCoy Regional Recreation Authority has authorized the mapping of a potential ninth trail system in Mercer County.
     A series of connector trails also is being planned for development next year that would link:
          • The Indian Ridge system in McDowell County with the Pinnacle Creek system in Wyoming County.
          • The town of Mullens, now accessible via the Pinnacle Creek system, with a new trailhead facility bordering Twin Falls State Park.
          • Logan's Fountain Place Mall, located along U.S. 119 near the new Chief Logan State Park lodge and convention center, with the Bear Wallow trail system.
          • The McDowell County town of Keystone with the Indian Ridge system.

     Linking the trail systems with connector trails allows trail riders to explore new trails systems without having to trailer their vehicles or change campsites or lodging accommodations. Providing ATV access to towns near the trail gives riders easy access to gas, food and repairs while giving local businesses a new source of customers.
     Next year's plans also include construction of 10 to 15 miles of new trail at the Pinnacle Creek system, in addition to an extra 5 to l0 miles of single-track trail for motorcyclists, and to begin making all of the Little Coal River system in Boone County accessible to wider-bodied UTVs - utility terrain vehicles in which a rider and driver sit side-by-side.
     "UTVs are becoming the wave of the future," said Fekete.
     Since the Little Coal River system near Waterways waterpark has little room for expansion, Hatfield-McCoy officials are considering developing a second Boone County trail network in the Madison-Danville area.
     Fekete said 2008 is the busiest year on record for the Hatfield-McCoy Trails, with ridership up 20 percent over last year.
     "Despite the high gas prices, people continue to come to Southern West Virginia to ride the trails," he said. "People seem to be taking fewer long vacations in favor of several mini-vacations."
     While new trail systems for motor vehicles have sprung up elsewhere in the East, the Hatfield-McCoy Trails remains the biggest.
     "We'll keep expanding and getting bigger and better," said Fekete. "We want to be considered the Disneyland of ATV parks. Other smaller parks will pop up in Pennsylvania and other places in the East, and that's fine. It gives people places to ride until they can come here."
     "The Hatfield-McCoy Trail has done a good job of adding new trails to their system," said Charles Howell of Ashland, Ky., as he prepared to ride a section of trail from the Bear Wallow Trailhead near Logan on his UTV with his son, Chuck. The Howells, former Pineville area residents, have ridden all sections of the Hatfield-McCoy system except for Pinnacle Creek.
     "But we rode trails along Pinnacle Creek before the Hatfield-McCoy Trail was started," said Chuck Howell.


     The Motorcycle Safety Foundation has introduced a new Military SportBike RiderCourseSM for U.S. Armed Forces throughout the world.
     According to the recent MSF press release, the course was developed in close collaboration with the U.S. Navy and U.S. Army safety centers and is now available to all branches of the Department of Defense.
     Developed to address the increasing number of military personnel who are involved in sport bike crashes, the MSF Military SportBike RiderCourse is a “next-level” training course for military riders who have completed the MSF Basic RiderCourse. The one-day course consists of approximately three hours of classroom interactive lesions and four hours of on-cycle range time, and is taught by instructors (RiderCoaches) who receive additional training and special MSF certification to teach the course.
     “The goal is to provide riders with a way to further develop personal riding strategies and decision-making abilities to help them minimize their risk,” said Dr. Ray Ochs, MSF director of training systems.
     The classroom segment focuses on the behavioral aspects of riding such as attitude and personal risk assessment, and includes discussions about braking proficiency, cornering techniques, traction management and characteristics unique to sport bikes. The hands-on range session builds on these topics by providing riders the opportunity to develop and improve skills in braking, cornering and swerving.
     A student pocket takeaway booklet, the “Sport Bike Survival Guide,” will be provided to all military personnel who participate in the course. Written by accomplished sport bike riding instructor Nick Ienatsch, with a foreword from Superbike Champion Ben Spies, it includes riding techniques, street strategies, handy reference materials, quick tips, and additional resources for those seeking to further their knowledge and skills.
     The Department of Defense requires completion of an MSF course for all military personnel who ride, and the U.S. Navy now requires the MSF Military SportBike RiderCourse for all personnel who own sport bikes once they have completed the MSF Basic RiderCourse.
     To date, more than 1,600 Navy and Marine personnel have taken the new MSF Military SportBike RiderCourse.
     “With this new course for military riders, the Motorcycle Safety Foundation continues its ongoing effort to provide innovative programs and curriculum, all developed with one goal in mind – to fulfill its mission of improving rider safety,” Ochs said.

November 2008

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

     AMA President and CEO Rob Dingman called for the U.S. Department of Transportation to expedite a long-overdue federal study into the causes of motorcycle crashes in a meeting with the agency's head, Secretary Mary Peters, on Friday, October 3. Acting Administrator of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) David Kelly, and AMA Vice President of Government Relations Ed Moreland also attended the meeting.
     "There are an estimated 10 million motorcyclists on the road today, more than at any time in America's history," said Dingman. "As a direct result of this growth and increased usage, we are experiencing more crashes, injuries and fatalities. Our meeting with Secretary Peters--a motorcyclist herself--was cordial yet frank. We believe she understands the sense of urgency to get this crash research underway."
     According to NHTSA statistics released by Peter's office in September, the number of motorcycle riders or passengers killed on U.S. roads in 2007 increased 6.6 percent over 2006, while the overall number of traffic fatalities fell to the lowest number since 1994.
     "Some time ago, Congress and the motorcycling community committed the necessary funds for this study," said Dingman. "For too long, NHTSA has simply focused on a strategy of advocating mandatory helmet use, while doing little to prevent crashes from occurring in the first place. With a new administration set to take office on January 20, we can't afford any more delays while motorcycle crashes, injuries and fatalities continue to mount. The time to begin the study is now."
     Dingman stressed that while the AMA strongly supports voluntary helmet use as one element of a comprehensive approach to motorcycle safety, a higher priority must be given by NHTSA to crash prevention, which must include greater emphasis on motorist awareness programs to educate road users about motorcycles.
     The crash study is being undertaken by the Oklahoma Transportation Center, an independent and well-respected research facility at Oklahoma State University in Stillwater. The last major motorcycle crash study was completed in 1980, and it provided a wealth of data that has been used to develop training and strategies to help keep riders safer on the road. In the decades since, the traffic environment has changed enormously, prompting the AMA to begin campaigning for a new study several years ago.
     "The idea behind the motorcycle crash causation study is to help us understand the causes of crashes so that effective countermeasures can be developed," said Dingman. "Absent this study, countermeasures will continue to be developed in a vacuum, with no way to know which measures will be effective."
     In their meeting Friday, Dingman also urged Secretary Peters to reject New York City's request to ban motorcycles from high-occupancy vehicle (HOV) lanes. Federal law stipulates that HOV lanes must allow motorcycles to use the lanes unless proven to pose a safety hazard.
     "Secretary Peters was supportive of our desire to end New York City's illegal ticketing of motorcyclists in HOV lanes," said Dingman.

     The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) plans to update Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) No. 122, Motorcycle Brake Systems, which applies to both two-wheeled and three-wheeled motorcycles.
     The proposal will specify a more stringent dry-brake measure; provide new high-speed, wet-brake and heat-fade tests; specify tests and performance requirements for antilock brake systems; and add a new power-assisted-braking-system failure test. The rule would match a global technical regulation that has already been adopted.

     The US Secretary of Transportation, Mary Peters, recently announced a proposal for new safety rules governing motorcycle helmets. The press release issued by the secretary's office states that the new rules "Will improve motorcycle safety by making it easier for riders to identify and use effective helmets, instead of unsafe ‘novelty helmets.' The proposal will also make it harder for riders to use novelty helmets in states that require DOT-certified helmets."
     "Novelty helmets do little to protect riders during an accident," Secretary Peters said. "This proposal will make it easier for riders to know in advance whether the helmet they buy will keep them safe."
     The proposal would amend the agency's current motorcycle helmet safety rules to require manufacturers to place a larger, tamper-proof DOT label on the back of certified helmets. The new labels will make it harder for vendors to remove the labels on safe helmets and affix them to the unsafe novelty helmets.
     The proposed rule would also strengthen the tests helmets must go through to receive DOT certification, including updated tests on how the helmets hold up during impact, whether objects can penetrate the helmet and how well the helmet stays in place during a crash.
     "As our testing has shown, ‘novelty' helmets do not have the energy absorbing capacity to protect a rider in a highway crash," said David Kelly, Acting NHTSA Administrator. "A DOT-certified and labeled helmet, as proposed today, will help consumers make more knowledgeable decisions when purchasing a helmet."
     Once published in the Federal Register, the agency will seek public comment for 60 days. To view the proposed rule, go to www.nhtsa.gov.

     The US Senate may consider an omnibus public lands package (S. 3213) during a potential lame-duck session which would consist of more than 160 bills grouped together by Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nevada).
     According to Senator Reid's office, the legislation was combined after consulting Senators Jeff Bingaman (D-N.M.) and Ken Salazar (D-Colorado); both are members of the Senate Committee on Natural Resources and sit on the Subcommittee on Public Lands. While all three Senators have remained fairly neutral on the subject of off-highway vehicle use on public lands, the legislation would create over 1 million acres of new Wilderness.
     Of primary concern to the motorized recreation community, is the inclusion of legislation to make the National Landscape Conservation System (NLCS) permanent. The NLCS would create an additional level of bureaucracy in the already muddled Travel Management Rule and remove much of the authority of the existing agencies in managing public lands. While the House of Representatives passed the NLCS measure earlier this year, the Senate is the last Congressional gatekeeper that would stop the bill from going to the president for signature.
     The AMA is asking all members and outdoor recreation enthusiasts to contact their Senators and ask them block passage of S. 3213. The vote would be set for the week of November 17th and has been identified as Senator Reid's top priority legislatively. Everyone's help is required in communicating the message that we cannot afford to close any more lands to responsible motorized recreation through the unneeded creation of Wilderness designations and the piling on of bureaucratic red-tape.
     For more information on S. 3213, contact the AMA through Sheila Andrews at sandrews@ama-cycle.org. Also, if you would like a fast and easy way to get the message to vote ‘No' in November out to your Senators, the AMA has made an e-mail letter available at www.americanmotorcyclist.com. Just click on the "Rights" section, then go to "Issues & Legislation" and click the "Take Action" button.

     New Hampshire - The City Council of Methuen has given the preliminary OK to change the ordinance governing the use of off-highway vehicles (OHVs) on private property. The new law would impose a $100 fine on anyone operating OHVs on their property within 500 feet of a neighboring dwelling.
     "You should be able to ride on your own property, but on the same token, you definitely have to be respectful of your neighbors," Bob Correa, vice president of the New England Motocross Association, said during an interview. "In a lot of towns, you're seeing a lot of stuff like this happening. I think it's unfortunate."
     The council approved the measure in an initial read, but it will have to be voted on a second time in order to take effect.

     ACEM, the Association des Constructeurs Européens de Motocycles, or the Motorcycle Industry in Europe, has chosen a cartoon to help motorcycle and scooter riders avoiding the potential risks related to hazardous road conditions. The cartoon was launched at the European Road Safety Day organized by the European Commission in Paris on Monday, October 13th.
     The objective of this safety campaign is to raise the riders' awareness about the potential risks coming from the roadway itself. The campaign was developed together with motorcycle instructors and will feature 13 episodes released on a monthly basis. Each issue will focus on a particular risk factor; offering tips and recommendations to riders on how to best tackle these different situations.
     Accidents caused by road and highway conditions account for eight percent of all crashes in Europe. Poor conditions of many European roads and the fact that Powered Two-Wheelers (PTWs) specific needs are still often neglected in road engineering are the main reasons for this situation. Therefore, rider behavior plays a major role in PTW safety. By providing more information on the road environment, this safety campaign will help riders to make better choices and contribute to improving personal safety.
     The cartoon can be downloaded from www.acem.eu/cartoon. Following the first release on intersections, the next episodes will feature roadside hazards, dangerous road surfaces, diesel and liquid spills, damaged and badly repaired surfaces, badly designed traffic flow-control devices, night time hazards, winter and ice treatments, surface debris, badly designed medians, metal fixtures and paint markings, and badly designed curves.
     With this safety campaign the Motorcycle Industry reaffirms its commitment toward safety. ACEM is a signatory of the European Road Safety Charter aiming at reducing road fatalities by 50 percent by 2010.

     The 2008 AMA Congress gathered October 9-11 to consider numerous issues affecting amateur motorcycle competition and recreational riding in the United States. Rule changes passed by AMA Congress included the regulation of motorcycle sound levels at competitive events, motocross class advancement and new event types for road riders.
     In all, AMA Congress considered 83 rule proposals at the 2008 annual meeting, 47 of which were passed or amended for possible ratification by the AMA Board of Directors. In deference to the needs of local AMA organizers, the AMA and original equipment manufacturers, most rules adopted by the 2008 AMA Congress will not take effect before 2010, at the earliest.
     Most notably, the 2008 AMA Congress passed a 94 dBA standard for all amateur and Pro-Am motocross and off-road competition, effective in 2011. The new standard will not apply to land-speed racing, speed trials or drag-racing events.
     The new level mirrors both the 2009 standard for professional motocross and Supercross racing in the United States, as well as the level mandated by the FIM (Federation Internationale de Motocyclisme), which governs international motorcycle competition. Currently, sound limits for amateur motorcycle competition are 99 dBA for closed-course competition and 96 dBA for cross-country racing.
     "Few issues contribute more to misunderstanding and prejudice against the motorcycling community than excessively loud motorcycles, and this measure addresses the issue head-on," said AMA President and CEO Rob Dingman. "This standard is already in place for professional and international competition, making this one of the most cost-effective and easy-to-implement solutions to the sound problem. That said, AMA Congress understands that amateur competitors may need more time to adopt this new standard and wisely established a reasonable deadline for compliance."
     Also at the meeting, AMA Congress passed revised advancement procedures for amateur motocross racers, which are designed to be more equitable to C-class riders poised to advance to the B level.
On the road-riding side, the AMA Congress considered several proposals, including two that develop new types of events. One is the Bonus Hunt, which is part scavenger hunt and part road enduro. The other provides a more detailed procedure for the popular Vintage Motogiro event, which gives owners of vintage and antique motorcycles a chance to meet and show off their unique machines.

October 2008

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

     Congress has finally passed legislation to keep the Highway Trust Fund from going broke.
The Highway Trust Fund, an account that holds the lion's share of federal money appropriated for highway and infrastructure projects, was set to hit zero at the end of September 2008. This would have left agencies, such as the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), without enough funding to continue operations until a new highway bill is passed in 2009.
     H.R. 6532, the legislation that provides the necessary $8 billion deposit into the fund, was passed by the U.S. House of Representatives on July 23, 2008. However, objections from the Bush Administration stalled the bill in the Senate. Upon a statement issued in early September by US Secretary of Transportation, Mary Peters, the Administration reversed its opposition to the legislation. Three days later the Senate was able to give final passage to the bill that will send it to President Bush for signature.
     Once President Bush signs the bill into law, federal transportation agencies will have the necessary cash to continue with on-going projects and daily operations through 2008 and 2009. Future funding will be provided by the up-coming highway bill, which Congress will begin drafting in early 2009 with hopes of passing in late 2009.

     The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) released the numbers for fatalities and injuries on American roadways during the 2007 calendar year. While overall numbers are down, motorcycles continue to be the only mode of motorized transportation with increases in both the fatalities and injuries categories.
     A total of 5,154 motorcyclists were killed in 2007, a 6.6% increase from the 4,837 killed in 2006. Motorcyclist injuries increased by 17%, up by 15,000 over 2006. The release from NHTSA underscores the need to move forward with the Motorcycle Crash Causation Study funded by Congress and contributions from the AMA, Motorcycle Industry Council (MIC) and individual riders.

     The United States Marine Corps has submitted an application for land withdrawal to the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) for property in Johnson Valley, California. The request would take the roughly 60,000 acres of off-highway recreation trails, plus an additional 362,000 acres of BLM land and use it to expand the military base in Twentynine Palms, California.
     After months of meetings and conversations between Base Officials and the off-highway community, the Marine Corps chose not to allow continued access by recreation enthusiasts and request the entire 422,000 acres available.
     "We are very disappointed that the Marines have chosen a plan that eliminates all rider access to Johnson Valley. We will continue to work with the Marines and others in the OHV community on negotiation efforts to preserve recreational access in Southern California," said AMA vice president, Ed Moreland.
     The next step in the process of deciding whether the entire withdrawal application will be granted in the Environmental Impact Study (EIS) the Marines must perform. Within the EIS will be an analysis of alternative measures for the Marine Expeditionary Brigade (MEB) to meet their training requirements. The Notice of Intent to perform the EIS should be published by the Department of the Navy in November and public scoping meetings should begin in December.
     AMA Western States Representative, Nicholas Haris, is involved in the effort to work with local base officials to ensure the needs and concerns of off-highway enthusiasts are continuing to be placed in front of the Marines. For updates as the withdrawal application proceeds, look to American Motorcyclist Magazine, AMA News & Notes, and www.americanmotorcyclist.com for information.

     California - The Mammoth Bar OHV Park motocross (MX) tracks repair project began in August. The MX tracks are expected to be closed for at least three weeks. Construction work will involve the installation of a water sprinkler system to minimize dust and airborne soil. The rest of the facility will remain open. For additional information, contact the Auburn State Recreation office at (530) 885-4527.

     Connecticut - Passage of Senate Bill 298, introduced by the Joint Committee on Transportation, changes the state's definition of a motorcycle to exclude motor-driven cycles and vehicles with or designed to have a completely enclosed driver's seat and a motor not in the enclosed area.

     Kentucky - House Resolution 5a, sponsored by Rep. Tim Moore (R-Elizabethtown), urging the Transportation Cabinet to install cable median barriers on appropriate sections of Kentucky's interstate highways, was adopted on June 25.

     Louisiana - Senate Resolution 169, sponsored by Sen. Robert Marionneaux (D-Maringouin) and adopted on June 23, declares July 16, 2008 as Motorcycle and Scooter Ride to Work Day.

     New York - Senate Bill 7405, sponsored by Sen. Thomas W. Libous (R-Binghamton), makes changes to the requirements for organizations seeking to provide coordination of the motorcycle safety program. The bill was signed into law July 7, 2008.

     North Carolina - A group of 30 stakeholders continue to negotiate future regulations governing off-highway vehicle (OHV) use on the many popular beaches in the Cape Hatteras National Seashore.
     The motorized community hit a large barrier with the anti-access special interest groups when Defenders of Wildlife and the National Audubon Society sued the Park Service in October 2007. That lawsuit resulted in the closure of many popular beaches to motorized and pedestrian access and created a lack of trust between the pro-access and anti-access group members.
     While a recent study of the group had four members admitting that they believed the group should suspend their efforts, the majority agreed that the dialogue must continue; with the goal being to shore-up access and restriction issues surrounding OHVs on public beaches. Official record of the September 8, 2008 meeting in Avon, NC has not yet been released, but will likely contain valuable information regarding the future of OHV access in Cape Hatteras.

     South Carolina - Recent changes to motorcycle licensing and endorsement requirements for three-wheeled motorcycles or motorcycles with sidecars are explained in a Department of Motor Vehicles chart at http://www.scdmvonline.com/DMVNew/general/Three%20Wheel%20MTC%20Endorsement%20Chart.pdf.

     South Carolina - The City of Myrtle Beach continued discussion on the future of bike rallies in the city limits at a meeting of the City Council on Tuesday, September 9, 2008. Information regarding what was covered during the afternoon gathering can be found at the City of Myrtle Beach website, located at http://www.cityofmyrtlebeach.com/agendas.html.

     Washington - The city of Seattle is considering a new law that would impose a $38 fine on anyone caught attempting to move a scooter or motorcycle over in its parking place in order to make room for their car. This has been a growing issue for Seattle scooter riders as more and more residents are making the switch to the 150-pound, highly fuel efficient vehicles.
     Scooter owners have been finding it more common to park, leave the vehicle, and return to find it not exactly in the same spot they left it. Incidents of shifting a scooter over occasionally result in a ticket for the scooter driver.
     Dan Nolte, an aide to City Council Member Sally Clark, has labeled the hands-off scooter rule a "no brainer."
     According to Garrett Johnson, a scooter and motorcycle advocate with Cycle Barn Motorsports Group, "Can you imagine if people got into unlocked cars, popped into neutral and rolled it away so they could take parking spots?"

     Canada - According to a recent press release from the Alberta Mini RoadRacing Association (AMRA), the Government of Alberta, Canada, will help fund their AMRA Community and Ladies Sport Training Program. The press release goes on to list the approved items the funding will provide, including, "10 new motorcycles, both sport and dirt frame machines, along with 10 complete sets of riding gear including helmets, riding leathers, gloves and boots."

     England - Princes William and Harry are reportedly back on for their week long charity motorcycle ride through South Africa and Lesotho.
     The trip that has been on, then off, and now apparently back on again, would take the brothers, and crowned Princes, through some intensely dangerous, competely ‘off-highway' riding. The trip is to total roughly 1,000 miles in a Long Way Down style trek with the purpose of raising money for orphans and AIDS victims in Africa.
     The two Princes are said to be extremely passionate about helping the people of Africa. Prince Harry has already started a charity organization named Sentebale to benefit the citizens of Lesotho. Sentebale means, "Forget me not."
     While travel details are being kept secret, the information on how to donate to their riding campaign for orphans and AIDS victims will be available once the trip is confirmed.

     Dates for the 28th Annual Cycle World International Motorcycle Shows have been announced, beginning in Phoenix Arizona from October 31, 2008 - November 2, 2008. For a complete list of shows with ticket information and hotel deals in each city, visit www.motorcycleshows.com.

     The Washington, D.C. "Ride Into Political Action" seminar has been set for February 21-24, 2009 at the Hyatt Regency Washington on Capitol Hill. Are you tired of politicians not representing your views as a motorcyclist?Are you willing to do something about it? Whether you're a veteran lobbyist or just a concerned motorcyclist who wants to be heard on Capitol Hill, the American Motorcyclist Association's "Washington, D.C. Ride Into Political Action" seminar is for you. At this event you'll learn from the experts about the issues facing motorcyclists today. And you'll learn the ins and outs of working with members of Congress and federal agencies.
     In the four day seminar you will be spending your time with these daily activities:
              Saturday: The seminar kicks off in the evening with a brief nuts-and-bolts session for those who are new to lobbying. A "welcome" reception and orientation for all participants follows. 
              Sunday: You dive into the world of government and politics. You learn about state, federal and global issues, and the ongoing efforts of motorcyclists to influence your issues on Capitol Hill.
              Monday: The seminar moves into high gear. Discussions focus on building relationships with lawmakers, officials, and working with federal agencies. The day's discussions wrap up with how to deliver your message to congressional offices.
              Tuesday: This is the payoff day when you put your new skills into practice. After a brief refresher session, you head off to talk with members of your own congressional delegation. Then you take part in a debriefing session, before learning how to strengthen lobbying efforts in your own state.
     For information on how to register for the seminar, please contact Sharon Smolinka, with the AMA Government Relations Department, at (614) 856-1900 ext. 1252. Or visit the AMA website at www.americanmotorcyclist.com/legisltn/dcseminar.asp.

September 2008

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

     The American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) thanked U.S. Forest Service Chief Abigail Kimbell for asking media outlets to stop airing a Smokey Bear public service announcement (PSA) that unintentionally implied all all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) pose a fire hazard in national forests.
     Kimbell made the request after off-highway vehicle (OHV) organizations, including the AMA, complained that the video not only implied to non-riders that ATVs start forest fires, but also sent a message to OHV riders that they should stay out of the forests during the summer.
     "The Advertising Council, U.S. Forest Service and the National Association of State Foresters put the public service announcement together to educate riders about fire safety," said Ed Moreland, AMA vice president for government relations. "But the PSA completely missed the mark and questioned the intentions of responsible OHV riders everywhere."
     The PSA in question showed a woman riding an off-road bicycle, approaching two ATV riders at a trailhead. The video then morphed the woman into Smokey Bear, who suggested to the riders that they go home so that they didn't risk starting a forest fire with their machines.
     Concerned OHV groups told Kimbell that the PSA should have educated riders about having U.S. Forest Service-approved spark arresters on their machines, and staying on designated trails as ways to prevent forest fires. Spark arresters are original equipment on new ATVs and are provided by aftermarket manufacturers for exhaust systems intended for trail riding.
     AMA Government Affairs Manager Royce Wood and Duane Taylor, government relations specialist with the Motorcycle Industry Council, had a face-to-face meeting with Kimbell's staff to discuss the PSA. Other groups that expressed concerns to the U.S. Forest Service included the BlueRibbon Coalition, the National Off-Highway Vehicle Conservation Council, and the Off-Road Business Association.
     "Chief Kimbell is to be commended for listening to the concerns of the OHV community," said Moreland. "We support public service announcements that promote responsible riding, and we have asked the U.S. Forest Service to consult with OHV experts when producing OHV-related PSAs in the future. The OHV community is certainly willing to help."
     To that end, members of the Americans For Responsible Recreational Access (ARRA), which includes the AMA, delivered a letter to Kimbell on Monday, August 4, endorsing the proper use of a USDA-approved spark arrester on all OHV vehicles and offering assistance in the development of a PSA that educates riders about the importance using such a device, as well as the need to stay on designated trails.
     "Our common interest with the Forest Service makes it imperative that we work cooperatively on all initiatives intended to address responsible OHV use and the prevention of wildfires," Moreland said.

     US Secretary of Transportation, Mary Peters, recently unveiled the Bush Administration's plan for the future of transportation in America. Accompanied by a video presentation from Secretary Peters on their Department of Transportation operated website, www.fightgridlocknow.gov, the plan is titled Refocus. Reform. Renew. A New Transportation Approach in America.
     "Without a doubt, our federal approach to transportation is broken. And no amount of tweaking, adjusting or adding new layers on top will make things better," said Peters. "It is time for a new, a different and a better approach."
     The plan, according to the Secretary, sets the framework for reforming the nation's transportation programs by focusing on five main initiatives:

1) Renew federal focus on maintaining and improving performance on the Interstate Highway System
2) Address urban congestion and give state and local leaders greater flexibility to invest in their transit and highway priorities
3) Create accountability measurers to ensure investments in transportation will actually deliver results
4) Refocus emphasis on safety using technology and data-driven approaches, while giving states greater flexibility to address their specific safety challenges
5) Streamline the federal review process for new transportation projects

     While the initiative may be a step forward for some areas of national transportation, it is certainly unclear to the AMA what many of the implications of the proposal will be. As the Bush Administration's time in office runs out, it is likely that many of the ideas outlined in the document will not come to pass. However, this effort may lay the groundwork for sweeping transportation reform by the next Administration.

     Congress wants stricter safety standards for All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs), as indicated by their passage of HR 4040, the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008, on July 31, 2008.
     The legislation, which is currently awaiting the President's signature before becoming law, would require any ATV manufactured or imported and then sold in the United States to comply with the American National Standard for Four Wheel All-Terrain Vehicles Equipment Configuration and Performance Requirements, as developed by the Specialty Vehicle Institute of America (American National Standard, ANSI/SVIA).
     Additionally, the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) would be directed to consider strengthening safety standards for suspension, brake performance, speed governors, warning labels, marketing, and dynamic stability.
     Each product sold in the US would be labeled as compliant with the regulation only after all safety standards are met. The law also requires manufacturers and distributors to submit and follow an ATV action plan. The action plan is described as a written plan or letter of undertaking from the manufacturer or distributor outlining directives they agree to implement in pursuit of ATV safety. This includes rider training, distribution of safety information, age recommendations, policies regarding the marketing and sale of ATVs, monitoring of ATV sales, and other safety- related measures.
     The purpose of the legislation is to assure compliance with basic standards for ATVs in the United States and boost ATV safety and awareness programs domestically.
     If the bill is signed into law by President Bush, the CPSC will have 90 days to publish the ANSI/SVIA regulations as a mandatory safety standard. The standard will then take effect 150 days after it is published.

     Arizona - The Arizona State Parks Trail User Survey is currently underway. Log on and take the survey at https://websurvey.asu.edu/mrIweb/mrIWeb.dll?I.Project=AZTRAILS. As an Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) user, this is your chance to help set priorities for trail management in Arizona, and to help determine how a portion of the Heritage Fund and the OHV Recreation Fund should be spent.

     California - The land devastated in Shasta and Tehama Counties by the early summer wildfires is now being investigated for damage. Officials hope to develop steps to resuscitate the flora, fauna and recreational trails.
     More than 920,000 acres are being inspected by a team of 25 scientists to determine the best ways to regenerate the area and get the affected forests on track for re-growth. A primary concern is the bulldozer tracks created to access burning areas that could lead to heavy washouts in the rainy season and increase the possibility of severe erosion.
     "They hope to have a road map to recovery in seven to 10 days," said Mike Odle, spokesman for the Shasta-Trinity National Forest, referring to the work of the 25 scientists.


     Delaware - Senate Bill 114, sponsored by Sen. Charles L. Copeland (R-Wilmington), increases the minimum and maximum fines for covering a license plate with tinted or other material which conceals and/or obscures the information on the plate. The bill was signed into law July 16.

     Louisiana - Legislation signed by Gov. Bobby Jindal (R) requires coroners to annually report any off-road vehicle related deaths of persons less than sixteen years of age to the federal Consumer Product Safety Commission. The legislation was authored by Sen. Sherri Cheek (R-Shreveport).

     Massachusetts - House Bill 4892, authored by the Joint Committee on Consumer Protection & Professional Licensure, seeks to protect the rights of consumer to diagnose, service, and repair, or have repaired for them, motor vehicles, commonly referred to as "right-to-repair." The bill currently resides in the House Steering, Policy and Scheduling Committee.

     Ohio - In July the US Forest Service Eastern Region named Jo Reyer as the new Forest Supervisor of the Wayne National Forest. Reyer, whose most recent position was as the Director of Planning, Appeals, and Litigation in the Forest Service's Eastern Regional Office in Milwaukee, replaces Mary Reddan who retired in March. Reyer said, "I'm really excited to return to on-the-ground management of a national forest, and look forward to getting to know the employees, ecosystems, and communities of the Wayne National Forest."

     Rhode Island - House Bill 7648, sponsored by Rep. Kenneth Carter (D- Saunderstown), and Senate Bill 2426, sponsored by Sen. John J. Tassoni (D-Smithfield), permit motorcycle dealers and associations engaged in motorcycle safety to provide motorcycle driver education courses, if certified by the board of governors for higher education and/or the Community College of Rhode Island. Both bills were signed into law by Gov. Donald L. Carcieri.

     Texas - The National Park Service has announced that it is developing an Off-Road Vehicle Management Plan for the Lake Meredith National Recreation Area. The Park Service says that the plan is necessary to provide for sustainable ORV use, address negative resource impacts and to address the change in "numbers, power, range and capabilities of ORVs". For more information contact Superintendent Cindy Ott-Jones by email at Ott-Jones@nps.gov or visit http://parkplanning.nps.gov/LAMR.

     France - On September 9th, 2008, France will hold its first day dedicated to the sustainable use of motorcycles and scooters in the nation. "La Journée Nationale de la Moto et du Scooter" will take place at the Circuit Carole, in Paris, and is by invitation only.

     Long Way Down, the next motorbike adventure by friends Ewan McGregor and Charlie Boorman, is now airing Saturdays at 9pm ET/PT on the Fox Reality Channel.
The 13-episode series details the men's trek from Scotland to South Africa. Their journey takes them through areas such as Tunisia, Kenya, and Namibia. It is the follow-up to the thrilling "Long Way Round" which took McGregor and Boorman from London to New York, traveling east.
If you do not have the Fox Reality Channel or missed the abbreviated showing in local theatres, the full series will be released on video in October.
AMA members will be eligible for a discount on their purchase of Long Way Down. You can take advantage of the member discount by going to www.ama-cycle.org to buy your copy after its Fall 2008 release.

     Want to be in American Motorcyclist Magazine? AMA continues to put members first by seeking out member photos, letters, and input for each monthly edition. If you have something to say or a picture you want to share from your last ride, just go to http://www.amadirectlink.com/magazine/submissions.asp?s=banner and follow the instructions for submissions.

August 2008

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

    Motorcyclists' voices were heard on the international motorcycle safety scene recently. Among the recommendations accepted by the International Transport Forum of the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) were to create better motorcycle safety training, teach car drivers to watch for motorcycles, and promote responsible riding. The meeting was held June 10-11 in Lillehammer, Norway.
    The International Transport Forum, comprised of high-level officials in the transportation, logistics and mobility arenas in their countries, held the workshop to focus on motorcycle safety. Ed Moreland, AMA vice president for government relations, Kirk Willard, president of the Motorcycle Riders Foundation, John Chatterton-Ross, Federation Internationale de Motocyclisme, director of European Union public affairs, and Hans Petter Strifeldt, president of the European Federation of Motorcyclists' Associations, were among those representing the interests of riders.
    Others taking part from the United States included representatives of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS)--a powerful Washington, D.C.-based group of insurance companies that recently suggested banning or capping the speeds of "sport" and "supersport" motorcycles.
    "High-level transportation officials from around the world attended this conference to discuss motorcycling and motorcycle safety, so it was critical that motorcyclists made their voices heard," Moreland said. "Based on many of the recommendations, I feel we succeeded."
    One recommendation is to create a tiered approach to motorcycle safety training that builds on existing standards, focuses on risk awareness and risk avoidance and understands the limits of riders and their motorcycles. Another calls for the general training of all drivers to watch for motorcycles and to share the road. A third suggests that the motorcycle industry promote and market responsible motorcycling. Riders are asked to be responsible as well.
    The workshop attendees encouraged training for road planners, as well as highway and traffic engineers, so that motorcyclists are considered in their designs. Other recommendations include better braking systems for motorcycles, formal safety meetings between motorcyclists, government policy makers and other interested parties, and more safety messages geared for motorcyclists.
    "Quite often these types of meetings occur in a vacuum, devoid of the opinions and perspective of the people most impacted by the topics discussed," said Moreland. "This meeting was particularly significant because the real-world perspective of riders was given equal weight and our input was recognized on a global stage."

    The United States Forest Service, a division of the United States Department of Agriculture, announced the next meeting of the Roadless Area Conservation National Advisory Committee (RACNAC) for July 30-31, 2008, in Washington, DC.
    The purpose of the meeting is to discuss the proposed rule for the management of Roadless areas on National Forest System lands in the state of Colorado and to discuss other related Roadless area matters.
    The meeting is open to the public and anyone wishing to obtain more information can contact Jessica Call, RACNAC Coordinator, at jessicacall@fs.fed.us or (202) 205-1056.

    The AMA Government Relations Department has issued sound testing kits to the Colorado Off-Highway Vehicle Coalition, Cycle Conservation Club of Michigan, Stoney Lonesome Motorcycle Club, and others.
    Under the department's sound-testing program, now in its fourth year, recipients receive a kit that includes a sound meter, tachometer, instructional DVD and manual, spark arrester probe, personal protective equipment and a certificate for a free annual recalibration of the meter from the meter supplier.
    The Colorado Off-Highway Vehicle Coalition sought the kit to educate off-highway vehicle users about the sound levels of their machines before they faced possible citations for excessive sound levels.
    Other organizations that received kits were the Boise Ridge Riders and Doublin Gap MX Park. Another five kits will be awarded by the end of the year.
    For more information on the sound meter grand program, contact Royce Wood at (614) 856-1900, ext. 1225, or by e-mail at rwood@ama-cycle.org.

    California - Assembly member Joel Anderson (R, 77th District) is starting a petition drive to authorize a specialized OHV license plate. California will produce the plate only after it receives an initial order of 7,500. Visit www.OHVPlates.org for more information.

    California - Jim Woods, the current president of AMA D37 Dual Sport, was recently elected president of the California Off Road Vehicle Association (CORVA). Mr. Woods brings a long commitment to OHV and motorcycle issues statewide. Go to www.corva.org for more information on this important election.

    California - On July 9, 2008, Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger announced new appointments to the California Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Recreation Commission. The Commission controls millions of dollars in fuel tax revenue in the State of California and is a division of California State Parks.
    The new appointees are: Bradley Franklin, of Chino Hills, CA; Kane Silverman, of Soquel, CA; and Paul Slavik, of Huntington Beach, CA.
    For background information on the new commissioners, the press release on all of Governor Schwarzenegger's appointments can be found at http://gov.ca.gov/press-release/10131/.
   

    Georgia - Senate Bill 437, sponsored by Sen. Jeff Mullis (R- Chickamauga), provides for the titling, registration and licensing of assembled motor vehicles and motorcycles. Signed into law by Governor Sonny Perdue, the new law took effect May 14, 2008.

    Illinois - Senate Bill 2596, sponsored by Sen. William Delgado (D-Chicago), would provide for increased penalties for causing bodily harm or great bodily harm to a ‘vulnerable user of the public way.' The list of users includes motorcyclists, bicyclists, and pedestrians, and other roadway users not in or on a motor vehicle.

    Minnesota - On July 3, 2008, the Crookston Daily Times reported on the need for motorcyclists to ride safe and sober this riding season.
    According to the article, more than 30 percent of motorcycle fatalities in the state in the last three years involved operators that were riding impaired. Additionally, 35 percent of motorcycle deaths on weekends (the period traditionally with the highest fatality rates) were "alcohol-related." 
    Of special attention is the notification that East Grand Forks and Crookston Police Departments will be conducting increases DWI patrols in the month of July.

  Ohio - As reported by the Columbus, OH, branch of the Associated Press, the state of Ohio recently approved the use of three-wheeled electric vehicles on Ohio roads by making changes to the definition of a motorcycle.
    The vehicles typically resemble small cars and are rechargeable. Two examples, the Zap Xebra and the Myers Motors NmG, will be registered as motorcycles under provisions in House Bill 562.
    The new vehicle approval was part of a large funding bill signed into law by Governor Ted Strickland on June 24, 2008. Although he vetoed some portions of the legislation, the motorcycle definition provision was unaffected.

    Oklahoma - A Senate Concurrent Resolution, authored by Sen. Kenneth Corn (D-Howe), expresses concern about the Ouachita National Forest's new travel management plan, which will limit OHV use to 40 miles of designated trails. The resolution calls on the US Congress to intervene and postpone the implementation of the new policy. The text of the resolution is available on the "Rapid Response" page of www.AMADirectLink.com.

    South Carolina - Joining six other states in permitting motorcyclists to proceed through stuck red lights under certain conditions, Senate bill 111, sponsored by Sen. Phil Leventis (D-Sumter), was signed into law by Governor Sanford. The legislation also provides for certain specialty license plates for motorcycles. SB-605 was signed into law June 16, 2008 by Governor Mark Sanford and takes effect immediately.

    The Women's Motocross Association recently announced that Jessica Patterson has been nominated for a 2008 ESPY award. The official press release is below:
Bend, Ore. (July 3, 2008) - The Women's Motocross Association's multi-time National Champion Jessica Patterson, of Tallahassee, Florida has been nominated for a 2008 ESPY award. With the support of the motocross community Patterson hopes to bring home this prestigious award.
    The ESPYS, Excellence in Sports Performance, is the premier sports awards event, put on by ESPN, which honors individual and team athletic achievements and other sports-related performances each year.
    Sports icons nominated for a 2008 ESPY include: Tiger Woods, Tom Brady, Kobe Bryant, and Danica Patrick - household names and amazing company for WMA motocrosser, Patterson.
    Patterson has been nominated for Best Female Action Sport Athlete for her performance in the 2007 AMA/WMA Women's Motocross national Championship presented by Kawasaki. The 25-year-old racer dominated the Championship winning an impressive 10 out of 12 motos and the title. She even suffered a painful hand injury in the first moto of the Thunder Valley National, but road through the pain in the second moto to salvage points.
    Other nominations in the category include: Snowboarder Gretchen Bleiler, Surfer Stephanie Gilmore, and Snowboarder Lindsey Jacobellis.
    "I'm incredibly honored and excited to be nominated for an ESPY Award," said Jessica Patterson. "I'm really looking forward to be being at the awards show at the Nokia Theatre L.A. Live in Los Angeles on July 1th. And hoping to represent women's motocross by winning it."
    The 2008 ESPYS will be hosted by Justin Timberlake and air Sunday, July 20th at 9 PM ET on ESPN. Celebrities such as Lance Armstrong, David Beckham, Ashanti, Zac Efron and Samuel L. Jackson will be presenters at the event. The winner of each ESPY category is decided by fan votes, to do so visit www.espys.tv. Voting continues through July 12th and motocross fans are encouraged to vote for Jessica Patterson and support the sport we all love.

    Tread Lightly! is urgently seeking volunteers for an important project in the Sierra National Forest on the Bald Mountain Off-Highway Vehicle trail in California.
    According to information from Tread Lightly! on the event, volunteers will be needed to help clear a short rail reroute and also to help fence off some areas. They will also be digging holes, laying pipe, pouring cement and filling in holes.
    The volunteer day will take place on Friday, August 1, 2008, beginning at 8 a.m. and lunch with a light breakfast will be provided. For details on where to meet, what to bring, and who the project sponsors are, please visit http://www.treadlightly.org/page.php/programs-r4r-hummerrecreationrescue.
    All volunteers will be required to complete a US Forest Service volunteer agreement.
    If you cannot make the volunteer day, there will be a one-hour training and awareness course the night before for anyone that wishes to attend. That will take place from 7pm - 8pm at the High Sierra Ranger District Office Conference Room.
    Tread Lightly! is an organization devoted to the development, maintenance, and active management of motorized and non-motorized recreational trails across the country. If you are in California on August 1st, you are encouraged to volunteer for this great event. For more information on this event, other events, or the work of Tread Lightly!, please visit their website at www.treadightly.org.

July 2008

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

    The US Senate Committee on Energy & Natural Resources held a hearing regarding off-highway vehicle (OHV) use on public lands on June 5, 2008. Testifying at the hearing were Ed Moreland, AMA vice president for government relations, Greg Mumm, BlueRibbon Coalition executive director, Government agency officials, and other public land interest groups.
    Countering criticism that off-highway vehicles damage public land, Moreland told the congressional committee that lawmakers need to provide more people and money for federal agencies to responsibly allow for varied uses of the land.
    In his testimony, Moreland also said that active management of different forms of recreation on federal public land is needed rather than trying to further cut the costs of management or eliminating motorized trails.
    "In both cases, everybody loses," he said. "What we have yet to see is the adoption of full-scale active management, a truly collaborative approach and the budgets and people to accomplish an achievable multiple-use mission."
    "The motorized recreation community has a long history of volunteerism and is already helping public land managers by maintaining trails, promoting ethical use and advocating for appropriate funding levels," he said.
    Moreland pointed out that millions of Americans enjoy motorized recreation, and while the number has increased significantly in the past several years, funding, management and recreation opportunities have decreased.
    "This has led to more concentrated impacts on those areas where OHV recreation is still allowed, increased the burden on land management staff and contributed to user conflicts," he said. "We recognize that this type of growth presents many unique challenges for public land managers. Additionally, as a primary stakeholder, the recreation community enjoys an impressive track record of collaborating with other users as well as land managers to create workable solutions."
    During his testimony, Moreland also raised particular concerns about the designated motorized-route plans that each national forest is creating. The Forest Service was given tight deadlines to produce those plans but weren't given more money or people to do it and the federal Bureau of Land Management may soon face similar challenges.
    "An inventory system that fails to provide adequate time and funding to do the job right is destined to fail," he said. "We urge the committee to be cautious as you consider similar planning for other land management agencies."
    In his testimony, Greg Mumm, executive director of the BlueRibbon Coalition, noted that the economic benefits of OHV use can't be ignored. For example, a California state report in 2007 reported that OHV recreation in the state pumped an estimated $9 billion into the state's economy every year. In Arizona, OHV use generated nearly $3 billion in retail sales in 2002. He added that the demand for public places to ride is increasing while the opportunities are limited.
    "There are solutions to these challenges through appropriate planning, maintenance and monitoring," Mumm said. "Active management for OHV recreation activities is the key, and there are many working examples."
    Moreland concurred. "While it remains incumbent upon the agencies to provide a managed setting for recreation, and a forum for users to engage in the debate and help provide resources, education and expertise, it is the responsibility of Congress to ensure that the agencies have sufficient resources to accomplish their mission."

    The Motorcyclist Advisory Council (MAC) to the Federal Highway Administration met for their second-quarter meeting on May 6-7 in Crystal City, Virginia. The commission made recommendations to Secretary of Transportation Mary Peters on various topics, including items for the next 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 2008 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.
    All riders are encouraged to take the 10-minute survey by going to the following web address: http://www.surveymonkey.com/MACMembersHighwaySurvey.

    The Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices, also considered the "go-to" resource for standard pavement markings and traffic signs, will finally be updated with an image for motorcycles. The image, a side profile of a person riding a motorcycle drawn in solid black and to be placed on a diamond-shaped yellow sign, is the first motorcycle specific imagery to be certified by the Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration.
    Prior to the creation of the design, states and local municipalities were creating their own imagery and signs without any guidance at the national level.

    Former South Dakota Governor Bill Janklow has settled with the family of Randy Scott for $1 million five years after running a stop-sign in his car and killing the motorcyclist.
    On August 16, 2003, Randy Scott's motorcycle hit the back of Janklow's car after the former Governor and U.S. Representative ran a stop sign near Trent, South Dakota. Randy Scott's family filed a $25 million lawsuit against Janklow after he only received 100 days in jail for his heinous error. Because the initial prosecutor determined Mr. Janklow was on official business at the time, the suit named the federal government as the defendant.
    A trial in the wrongful-death suit was set for this June, but the $1 million settlement came weeks earlier on May 14.
    In a local South Dakota news article published shortly after the settlement was announced, Marcella Scott, Randy Scott's mother, said that the end of the lawsuit brings the family closure, but she will never get over the loss of her son.

    The 17th Annual Motorcycle and Scooter Ride to Work Day is set for Wednesday, July 16th. For more information on Ride to Work Day please visit www.ridetowork.org.

    Polaris Industries announced the completion of its second year of T.R.A.I.L.S. grants. The monetary awards from T.R.A.I.L.S., which stands for trail development, responsible riding, access, initiatives, lobbying, and safety, have gone to help over 78 all-terrain vehicles (ATV) organizations in 42 states, according to their May 20 announcement.
    In just over two years, the T.R.A.I.L.S. Grant Program has awarded $700,057 to local, state, and national ATV clubs.
    According to Mike Dougherty, vice president of the ATV division at Polaris, "The consistently growing interest in this program is evidence enough of the dire need to secure legal riding places in the United States."
    Polaris describes the grant program as encompassing two main objectives, "promoting safe and responsible riding, and preserving access." Any not-for-profit national, state, or local ATV organization can apply. Funds can be used by organizations for trail development and maintenance projects, safety and education initiatives, lobbying and other projects to increase and maintain land access.
    For the full Polaris press release, more information on the ‘T.R.A.I.L.S.' grant program and an application form, visit the Polaris Web site at www.polarisindustries.com and click on "Riders," then select "Right to Ride."

    Arizona - The Moto Trax facility, located 30 minutes from downtown Phoenix, recently held an open house event to highlight this long-planned, state-of-the-art 320-acre sports complex. Riders can look forward to numerous off-highway vehicle (OHV) opportunities in the near future.
    Plans include a motocross track, ATV track and 4x4 play areas. For more details, go to http://www.mototrax.org for the latest information on this exciting new facility.

    California - In a move that has many in the motorcycle community scratching their heads, the Police Department of Oakland, CA has decided to make all 45 of their Harley-Davidson motorcycles louder.
    According to a report in the San Francisco Chronicle on June 9, 2008, some officers complained that they just don't ‘feel safe' on quieter bikes. Previously, the motorcycle unit operated with modified exhaust systems that were later removed after an officer complained of hearing loss.
    When the pipes were changed, however, other officers claimed the old adage of ‘being heard before you are seen' as the safety issue behind returning to excessively loud exhausts. So the department paid $1200 for a report that yielded results in favor of louder pipes, but were admittedly un-scientific.
    The new modified exhausts test at an average of 93-decibels, which is well above the 80-decibel federal standard, and against California law.

    California - Off-highway vehicle (OHV) recreation in California has taken a large hit and may take another one soon.
    Recently, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) found high levels of asbestos in the Clear Creek Management Area, prompting the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) to post an emergency closure order.
    The closed area covers roughly 31,000 acres and includes both opportunities for motorized and non-motorized recreation. The situation continues to be investigated, but the BLM is saying it will be at least 20 months before this important riding area can be re-opened.
    Additionally, the Johnson Valley Open Access area in Twentynine Palms, CA, is facing a proposal from the neighboring Marine Base to expand into much of the popular 185,000 acre recreation area.
    The AMA, along with many other state and national organizations are working with the local base commander and the BLM to find a suitable alternative.
    Both stories are rapidly evolving so look to future issues of News & Notes or American Motorcyclist Magazine for continued updates.

    Indiana - Hard work by ABATE of Indiana and motorcyclists throughout the state resulted in the passage of House Bill 1318, introduced by Rep. Carolene Mays (D-Indianapolis).
    The bill eliminates the extra $10 registration fee on motorcycles designated for deposit in the spinal cord and brain injury fund and replaces it with a 30 cent fee on all motor vehicle registrations. Visit http://admin.abateonline.org/ABATE.aspx?PID=413 for photos taken at the signing ceremony with Governor Mitch Daniels.

    Maryland - Following unanimous passage, Senate bill 712 has been signed into law by Governor Martin O'Malley.
    Authored by Larry E. Haines (R- Westminster), the new law subjects anyone convicted of a right-of-way violation that results in serious bodily injury or death to a maximum penalty of a $1,000 fine and/or a 180-day license suspension. The new law takes effect July 1.
    Over five years of hard work by ABATE of Maryland took on new meaning in 2006 after a failure-to-yield crash killed then-state director, Marty Schultz.

    Michigan - Michigan House Bill 4749, sponsored by Rep. Barbara Farrah (D-Southgate), would provide for adult helmet choice for Michigan motorcycle operators 21 years of age or older who have completed a motorcycle safety course, have had a motorcycle endorsement for at least two years, and have at least $20,000 in first-party medical benefits. It would require a valid ‘no helmet' permit from the Michigan secretary of state at a cost of $100 for one year or $200 for three years. Non-residents would be exempt from the requirements of this bill.
    Passed by both the House and the Senate, HB-4749 was delivered to Governor Jennifer Granholm on June 5 for her consideration.

    Oregon - A lawsuit brought against Team Oregon by the Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) has been settled. The lawsuit alleged on strong similarities between the Team Oregon motorcycle training program and the Motorcycle Safety Foundation RiderCourse curriculum.
    The terms of the settlement are outlined in a May 28 news release from Team Oregon, see http://teamoregon.orst.edu/TO_WEB/PDF/News_Release_Lawsuit.pdf for more information.

    Washington - A last minute attempt to restrict funding for the state Department of Natural Resources (DNR) was line-item vetoed by Gov. Christine Gregoire (D). The measure had been inserted into the state budget without the opportunity for public debate and was immediately opposed by the AMA and other motorized recreation groups. Nearly 500 Washington riders used the AMA's Rapid Response Center to send a message to Gov. Gregoire urging her veto. For more details see the "news archive" on www.AMADirectLink.com.

June 2008

Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month was officially launched with a news conference on Thursday, May 1, 2008 on the grounds of the nation's Capitol in Washington, DC.
Speaking at the event were the co-chairs of the bipartisan Congressional Motorcycle Caucus, Rep. Michael C. Burgess M.D. (R-Texas) and Rep. Gabrielle Giffords (D-Ariz.), along with Secretary of Transportation Mary E. Peters, Motorcycle Industry Council (MIC) President Tim Buche and American Motorcyclist Association President and CEO Rob Dingman. The gathering of national leaders was organized by the MIC and called attention to the annual spring surge of motorcyclists on America's highways and encouraged responsible riding and driving by all roadway users.
    Burgess has introduced a bipartisan bill to fix a loophole in the HIPAA law that allows insurers to deny payment for injuries sustained while engaged in recreational activities like motorcycling. Burgess and Giffords have sponsored a House resolution (H. R. 339) that highlights Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month.
    Dingman encouraged Secretary Peters and the DOT to urge state highway safety offices to do more with federal 402 funds to educate motorists regarding the importance of watching out for motorcycles.
    Prior to making their remarks, the leaders shrugged off raindrops from a passing shower to view a motorcycle riding simulator, several late model bikes and the latest protective riding gear. Flanking the assembled group was a detachment of the U.S. Capitol Police Department's motorcycle corps.

    A Louisiana House Committee voted recently for Louisiana to modify a law requiring adult motorcycle riders to wear helmets. The bill, which has Gov. Bobby Jindal's support, would require riders under age 18 to wear helmets, and would create a mandatory training course for anyone applying for a license to operate a motorcycle. The committee's approval moves the bill to the house floor. Louisiana is one of only 20 states that require all motorcyclists to wear a helmet.

    Maryland motorcyclists will get one step closer to a safer ride this summer with a new state law that allows the use of auxiliary lighting. Both the House and Senate have approved a bill to make it legal to use the auxiliary lighting, thus increasing their visibility to other drivers.
    The auxiliary lights allow drivers to see motorcyclists from the side, as well as front and rear, when it's dark. The lights, which will only be used at night, illuminate the side of the motorcycle and don't project outward.
    The bill will be passed on to Governor Martin O'Malley for signing on June 1. The bill passed unanimously through the House and Senate.

    The US Bureau of Land Management (BLM) has issued an immediate, temporary closure of 31,000 acres of public lands in the Clear Creek Management Area (CCMA) in southern California to all public use. The closure is to protect the public's health and safety from exposure to asbestos, according to a recent press release. The BLM has closed the area that serves for off-highway vehicle use, hunting, rock climbing and other activities in a response to a human health risk assessment.
The assessment released by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) concluded that the exposures measured by the EPA for recreational activities at CCMA are above the EPA acceptable risk range of cancers.
BLM Managers say the next step is to continue a scoping period through June 21 to determine what should be considered for the management plan, then develop a draft of the proposal and have a final document drawn up after that.

    South Carolina Senate Bill 111 has passed the Senate and now resides in the Criminal Law Subcommittee of the House Judiciary Committee. S111 will address faulty traffic signal devices that fail to detect motorcycles.
    All Palmetto State riders are urged to contact their Representative and urge them to support S111 - the motorcycle red light bill.
    For further information on this an all legislation affecting South Carolina riders, be sure to check out the Statewatch section of www.AMADirectlink.com.

    In 2007, the National Audubon Society, the Defenders of Wildlife and Southern Environmental Law Center filed suit in a Federal District Court against the National Park Service because the Park Service did not have a travel management plan for the Cape Hatteras National Seashore.
    In an attempt to resolve the lawsuit, the Park Service negotiated an interim agreement to satisfy the concerns of the plaintiffs. Essentially the interim plan would ban OHV travel at night during the peak summer season and altogether at certain breeding grounds. The proposed plan is subject to approval by a Federal judge. The interim plan, once official, would remain in effect until a permanent OHV management plan is completed by a deadline of April 1, 2011.
    Sport fishermen, OHV enthusiasts, and the County Commissioners for Dare and Currituck Counties are less than pleased. The national economy is hurting local real estate sales, high gas prices are cutting down on vacation travel, and limiting access to some of the most exciting sport fishing grounds on the east coast seems to be the last straw.
    While a number of citizens in North Carolina have been contacting their congressional delegation in hopes that the Congress will intervene to ensure that OHV access to Cape Hatteras remains unrestricted. For them, beach driving and surf fishing are beloved local traditions dating back far before this particular National Seashore was created in the 1930's. Congressional pressure is certainly needed to change this situation and the AMA encourages all people to contact their Congressional delegation and encourage this responsible and traditional use of OHV recreation.

    Washington State Governor Christine Gregoire exercised her line-item veto of a measure that would have banned all construction of new trails or facilities for off-road motorized recreation for at least a year.
    The measure, which had been inserted in the state budget in a last-minute maneuver, without the opportunity for public debate, would have prohibited the state's Department of Natural Resources from building or expanding trails or facilities for off-road recreational vehicles until July, 2009. It was one of seven sections of the proposed capital budget that Gov. Gregoire vetoed.
    The AMA and other organizations spread the word of the legislature's maneuver. Nearly 500 people used the AMA's Rapid Response Center to send messages to Gov. Gregoire, urging her to veto the measure. Others helping rally support for a veto were the Northwest Motorcycle Association, the Washington Off-Highway Vehicle Alliance, the Washington Road Riders Association, the BlueRibbon Coalition, the Motorcycle Industry Council, the AMA District 27 organization and Americans for Responsible Recreational Access. Notices were also posted on the popular Thumper Talk and KTM Talk internet forums.

    The European motorcycle community has for a long time expressed serious concerns regarding Vision Zero, the strategy in which road authorities have envisioned how to achieve zero deaths and zero serious injuries on the roads. The concerns are due in large part to policies that rely on bans and regulations instead of adaptation of the road environment to suit all road users - motorcyclists included.
    But even if motorcycles have been viewed as high-risk road vehicles with regard to accidents, they have been all but excluded from the Vision Zero document. The Vision Zero document has first and foremost given anti-motorcycle campaigners an opening to propose a ban on motorcycles as these, they claim, are not compatible with a Vision Zero.
    The Vision Zero Motorcycle Road is the brainchild of two passionate engineers at the regional Road Authorities, Jan Petter Lyng and Bjørn R. Kirste, who have successfully designed the road exactly as the motorcyclists themselves recommend. It is not much that is needed to make a motorcycle friendly road with regard to preventing injuries in case of accidents: Crash barriers fitted with a sub-rail, forgiving side terrain, well thought out placing of signposts, cutting down sight-hindering vegetation - all in all small modifications and investments that are beneficial for all road users, including bicycles and cars. The price tag for modifying these 15 kilometres of road is estimated at 630 000 Euros.

    The Roof R06 Bamboo is a new-design motorcycle helmet with a shell constructed entirely from bamboo fibers - a sustainable, eco-friendly and innovative medium of creation - that passes European safety requirements for street-use helmets.
Constructed from bamboo slivers, the Roof R06 managed to pass the E22-05 safety requirements for use on the road. The great thing about this helmet is that not only does it offer adequate protection for your head; it also helps reduce the use of plastics and other environmentally-unfriendly materials during the manufacturing of standard helmets.
The only feature against this cool product is the price tag. The company is retailing these limited edition pieces for £189 ($377) each.

    US Transportation Secretary Mary E. Peters recently launched Fast Lane, the Department's new blog. Accessible at http://fastlane.dot.gov, Fast Lane will be an on-line community for all those interested in the nation's transportation system and its future.
Fast Lane contributors will include Secretary Peters, Deputy Secretary Thomas Barrett, Administrators from the Department's operating agencies, and other senior officials. In addition, the site will welcome guest bloggers from government, industry, and the transportation community. The Department will also use the blog to break news and make announcements.
    Fast Lane is an open forum, and visitors are encouraged to submit comments, contribute ideas, and bring to the Department's attention innovative and exciting transportation activities in their communities. All comments will be reviewed before inclusion, and a representative sample will be posted to the site.

    Staffordshire, UK mini-motorcycle riders are being targeted as part of a police campaign. Officers said they would seize and crush the bikes belonging to anyone found causing a nuisance on them.
    Staffordshire Police said the bikes must be taxed and insured. If not, they can only be legally ridden on private land with the landowner's permission. Officers said more than 1,000 mini-motorcycle incidents were reported in the county last year.

    The AMA/ATVA has teamed up with Americans for Responsible Recreational Access (ARRA) and several other national motorized recreation groups to develop a survey designed to gain a better understanding of how the US Forest Service's travel management rule is being implemented on the National Forest lands you access with your off-highway motorcycle or ATV.
    If you're an off-road rider please go to http://online.svia.org/survey/cgi-bin/qweb.cgi?4YXM42B to take the survey. Even if you're not familiar with the US Forest Service's travel management rule your input will still be useful.

May 2008

The American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) told a Congressional committee in written comments on March 13 that motorized recreation is a "legitimate and popular" use of public land that needs more federal funding.
    The topic of the subcommittee hearing was "Impacts of Unmanaged Off-Road Vehicles on Federal Lands. AMA Vice President of Government Relations Ed Moreland told the federal lawmakers that recreation, like any other resource, must be managed.
    Moreland also made a case for more funding for federal agencies, such as the US Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management, so that they can better manage motorized recreation. And he noted that the motorized recreation community has taken proactive steps, often in partnership with public land managers, to reinforce its land-use ethic through rider education and public awareness.
    Besides benefiting riders and the off-highway vehicle industry, motorized recreation pumps funds into local economies, Moreland added.
    Moreland closed his testimony by noting that the motorized recreation community has a long history of volunteerism and is ready to help public land managers by maintaining trails, promoting the ethical use of the land and advocating for appropriate funding.

    Arizona State Representative Jerry Weiers (R-Glendale) is continuing to push for legislation that would make off-highway vehicle owners pay a registration fee despite the bill's recent defeat in a Senate committee on a 3-3 vote.
    HB 2573 would create a $20-25 fee for each off-highway vehicle to maintain and build trails, restore damaged areas, educate riders and provide more law enforcement. It would also make certain activities misdemeanors, including driving off paths in a manner that damages wildlife, property or natural resources.
    A bipartisan group of co-sponsors and a diverse coalition ranging from off-highway vehicle groups to environmental organizations supported the bill, saying it would help protect landscapes and preserve the pastime in Arizona. A 2002 Arizona State University study found that 20 percent of Arizonans considered themselves off-highway vehicle enthusiasts, and the Arizona Game and Fish Department estimates that off-highway vehicle use has more than tripled since 1998.

    A new report from the National Highway Safety Transportation Administration (NHSTA) titled Methodology for Determining Motorcycle Operator Crash Risk and Alcohol Impairment has been released.
    Alcohol-involvement continues to be a prominent factor in motorcycle crashes. This project examined a variety of approaches by which the effects of alcohol on motorcycle rider impairment and crash risk can be measured. A two-volume report was prepared and can be found at www.nhtsa.dot.gov.  

    US Transportation Secretary Mary Peters reaffirmed her desire to lobby states for mandatory helmet-use laws in testimony before the US Senate Appropriations Committee Transportation Subcommittee in March.
    Peters' testimony follows letters she sent in February to US House and Senate leaders urging Congress to allow states to divert federal money away from motorcycle safety training and awareness programs and instead push for mandated helmet use.
Under federal law, the US Transportation Department is barred from lobbying for or against specific state laws. That measure was passed by Congress at the request of motorcyclists who specifically wanted to prevent the federal government from lobbying for mandatory helmet laws. But when asked whether she would support an exemption to the law to allow her department to lobby the states for mandatory helmet laws, she said she would.
    Peters is pushing to move funds out of motorcycle safety training and awareness even though the money was specifically approved by Congress at the request of motorcyclists who wanted to beef up the nation's motorcycle safety training and awareness efforts.
    In February, in response to the letters Peters wrote, Ed Moreland, AMA vice president for government relations, expressed concern that diverting federal motorcycle safety funds to mandate helmet use could harm rider training courses and motorcycle awareness programs that are already underfunded in many states.
    At that time, he also expressed concern that Peters' proposal could contradict sections of transportation bills passed in 1998 and 2005 that ban the use of federal motorcycle safety funds to lobby state legislatures in favor of mandatory helmet laws and could effectively reverse that ban.
    Moreland believes Peters is willing to push for mandatory helmet laws at the expense of rider training and awareness programs designed to teach motorcycling skills that would prevent crashes from occurring in the first place.

    The San Bernardino County, CA Board of Supervisors agreed recently to distribute $226,000 in grant funds from the State Department of Parks and Recreation to the Barstow and Victorville sheriff's stations to enforce off-highway vehicle (OHV) rules.
    The county is making OHV enforcement a priority, according to spokesman, for reasons ranging from environmental impacts to noise concerns and issues with off-roaders trespassing on private property. In the first two months of 2008, county code enforcement officers had more than 6,500 contacts with OHV riders, issued 129 warning citations and 109 court citations.
    The $97,000 in funding earmarked for the Barstow sheriff's station will go to purchase two new dual-sport motorcycles. The new bikes will join a new Chevrolet Tahoe truck, Rhino trail utility vehicle and 46-foot command post that are coming to the department to join its roster of OHV enforcement equipment. The grant funding comes through a fund created by OHV registration fees.
    Under the county's off-highway vehicle ordinance passed in 2006, riding on private property, riding without a permit or disturbing nearby residents with excessive noise, dust, smoke or fumes, are violations that carry a fine of up to $200 on the first offense. On a fourth offense, violators can face misdemeanor charges and up to $1,000 in fines and 90 days in jail.

    Southern California's loss of off-highway vehicle (OHV) access to popular federal recreation sites was the main theme at a town hall meeting hosted by Congressman Duncan Hunter at Cuyamaca College on the outskirts of San Diego. Mike Pool, the director for the California Office of the Bureau of Land Management, also shared the podium at the March 22 meeting.
    Over 200 OHV enthusiasts attended the event and many expressed concerns about the various competing interests that are impacting recreational opportunities in the California Desert region. The proposed expansion of the Marine Corps base into the Johnson Valley OHV Area, renewable energy construction projects, the endless parade of eco-lawsuits filed by anti-access groups against federal land agencies, and new Wilderness plans were the main points of contention.
    The event hosts urged enthusiasts to stay engaged in the political and land-use planning processes. The group was also reminded about shrinking federal recreation budgets and that supporting trail volunteer efforts and user-fee programs at selected sites will be key factors in the public land-use equation.

    A new Colorado law authorizes wildlife officers and other state lawmen to enforce federal motorized travel laws on public land. The law stipulates driving an off-highway vehicle on an unauthorized road or trail would cost the operator $100; the fine for motoring in a wilderness area is $200.
    Federal fines went up in late February where the penalty for driving a motor vehicle off designated routes on public land is $250. Getting caught with an off-highway vehicle machine in a wilderness area could result in a $500 fine.
    Motor vehicles now are forbidden on forest roads and trails except for those designated and signed specifically for their use. While this bill does not impact or change any existing right of access, the federal rule change is a work in progress while each national forest develops motor vehicle use maps.
    The Colorado Off-Highway Vehicle Coalition supported the off-highway enforcement bill. Supporters also included Colorado Backcountry Hunters and Anglers, Colorado Wildlife Federation and The Wilderness Society.

    Massachusetts riders converged on Beacon Hill recently in support of a bill seeking stricter penalties for drivers convicted of certain motor vehicle crashes.
    The riders helped introduce legislation during a committee hearing titled House No. 1464, sponsored by Rep. Anne M. Gobi, D-Spencer and Rep. Christine E. Canavan (D-Brockton).  

    The bill, consistent with the AMA Justice for All campaign and championed by the Massachusetts Motorcycle Association, seeks 2 1/2 years of mandatory jail time, 10-year loss of driver's license and increased fines from $35 to $350 for drivers convicted in crashes involving right-of-way violations where death or serious bodily injury occurs. The measure would apply to motorists convicted in all types of crashes.

    The Ohio State Highway Patrol presented AMA President and CEO Rob Dingman with the patrol's annual Partners for Safety award on March 21.
    The award recognizes the AMA's work with the OSHP since 2005 to reduce motorcycle traffic fatalities through a program called "Ride Smart. Drive Smart." The program encourages motorcyclists to get proper training, wear protective gear, and ride sober. It also promotes motorcycle awareness among car drivers on Ohio roads, encouraging them to look out for motorcyclists and give riders extra room on the highway.

    South Carolina S-605, a bill that will allow Palmetto State motorcycles to have vertical license plates on their bikes, passed the State Senate. The bill was sent to the House for consideration where it still faces a committee hearing and readings. If you live in South Carolina please contact your Representative and ask that they support S-605.

    A Toronto, Ontario Sikh who lost his battle to ride a motorcycle without a helmet has decided to file an appeal against the Canadian Court decision, saying that it will be in the "larger interest" of the community.
    The Court had on March 6 dismissed a plea of Baljinder Badesha, who was fighting a $110 ticket he received in September 2005 for not wearing a helmet over his turban while riding his motorcycle. He had claimed that the law discriminates against Sikhs because their religion obliges them to cover their hair with nothing more than a turban.
    Badesha, a 39-year-old father of four who immigrated from India to Canada in 1989, said that he would challenge the constitutionality of the law, rather than focusing his fight solely on the ticket he received.

    The Australian Department of Sustainability and Environment (DSE), Parks Victoria, and Victoria Police began a campaign to spot rogue off-highway vehicle (OHV) behavior in the state's parks and forests over the Easter weekend.
Additional patrols were conducted over the holiday break, and authorities watched riders around popular camping areas in Victoria. Easter is a popular time for OHV riders to head for the bush, and licensed and registered riders were welcome to use the 36,000 kilometers of forest road in Victoria's state forests and parks.
Riders are only permitted to ride on official roads and tracks on public land if they have a motorcycle license, their bike is registered, they are wearing an approved helmet, and normal road rules apply in state forests and parks.
Unlicensed riders can expect a fine of over $500 if they are caught riding in state forests and parks, and if the bike is also unregistered the total fine is close to $900.

    Honda Motor Company scientists are claiming that if a motorcycle resembles a human face, especially an angry one, the motorcycle will be more visible to other motorists. This design can be seen on Honda's ASV-3 motorcycle as well as new sportbike models such as the 2008 CBR 1000RR. The look is achieved by slanted headlights and the shape of the nose.
 

April 2008

US Transportation Secretary Mary Peters is urging Congress to allow states to divert federal money now used for motorcycle training and awareness to instead promote the use of motorcycle helmets.
    Peters sent letters to House and Senate leaders in February asking for the change.
The American Motorcyclist Association (AMA), and many others, expressed concern that diverting federal motorcycle safety funds to promote helmet use could harm rider training courses and motorcycle awareness programs that are already underfunded in many states.
AMA also expressed concern that Peters' proposal could contradict sections of transportation bills passed in 1998 and 2005 that ban the use of federal motorcycle safety funds to lobby state legislatures in favor of mandatory helmet laws and could effectively reverse those bans.