OFF THE WIRE
http://cencalbiker.com/Abate-update-1201.html
ABATE Update (1202)
On July 13th, California Governor Jerry Brown signed Assembly
Bill 1047 into law. The bill had passed the Assembly on a vote of 55 – 5, and
sailed through the Senate on a 36 – 0 vote.
The new law, which goes into effect January 1st, 2013,
prohibits MOTORCYCLE-ONLY CHECKPOINTS. This is great news for bikers!
This victory came thanks to the many bikers who had voiced their outrage over
the discriminatory practice. ABATE of California and the American Motorcycle
Association (AMA) applauded both Assemblyman Kevin Jefferies, who introduced the
bill and Gov. Brown for his signature.
The passage of the law comes as another ABATE-sponsored bill
makes its way through the legislature. AB 1890 would allow motorcyclists to
store transponders used on toll roads or bridges on their person or anywhere on
or in the motorcycle. Current law requires transponders to be mounted on the
motorcycle, where it can be stolen or fall off. Another bill which would allow
“MOTORCYCLES OK” to be painted on HOV (high-occupancy vehicles) lanes, commonly
known as commuter lanes, has been sidelined due to costs and the current state
budget crisis. But according to ABATE State Director Greg Covel, there may be a
way around that issue. “This is a constant battle, and requires effort from
everyone,” Covel said, “We must also always keep our ears to the ground for
legislation to remove our ability to lane share.”
Also, ABATE recently had a booth at the Spokes ’N’ Rods event
in Fresno. Hosted by Fresno’s Local 24, the booth was also manned by Jim
Lombardo, Assistant Legislative Director for ABATE of California. “Besides
supporting a great cause, we signed up at least five new members and had many
renewals. I really enjoyed my day!” said Lombardo.
