OFF THE WIRE
House Bill 2823 was introduced March 16th and not only prohibits doctors
from asking if there are guns in the household, but also recommends
doctors who continue to talk to patients about firearms be punished.
If one Texas lawmaker’s bill is passed, patients may have a few less questions to answer at the doctor’s office.
Stewart Spitzer (R-TX) has authored a bill which would essentially bar doctors from talking about guns with their patients. House Bill 2823 was
introduced March 16th and not only prohibits doctors from asking if
there are guns in the household, but also recommends doctors who
continue to talk to patients about firearms be punished.
“Pediatricians are asking children away from their parents, ‘Do you
have guns in your house?’ and then reporting this on the electronic
health records, and then the federal government, frankly, has access to
who has guns and who doesn’t,” Spitzer said in a recent interview about
the proposed legislation. He said he experienced the phenomenon
firsthand when he took his daughter to the doctor, who asked her whether
there were any guns in the house.
While HB2823 has some parents breathing a sigh or relief, the medical community has had a far less enthusiastic reaction.
“We, as physicians, ask all sorts of questions—about bike helmets and
seat belts and swimming pool hazards, dangerous chemicals in the home,
sexual behaviors, domestic violence. I could go on and on,” Gary Floyd, a
Fort Worth pediatrician and board member of the Texas Medical
Association, in an interview with the Texas Tribune.
While the bill would allow doctors to discuss guns with patients
deemed suicidal, Spitzer says that in most cases discussions about
firearms are “not appropriate.” Spitzer, a surgeon, said he wanted to
make sure that doctors “have the right not to ask that.”
Doctors are currently reporting who has access to guns and who
doesn’t based on patient answers to medical questionnaires. I teach my
children to never answer any questions pertaining to our household when I
am not present, but with the feds wanting to weigh children at daycare
facilities and public schools already dictating what foods children
should eat, we need to take every opportunity we can to eliminate the
government’s reach into our homes. HB2823 is a step in the right
direction, but we should all speak to our children about keeping our
families’ business private and out of the government’s intrusive reach
into our parental rights.
Tuesday, March 31, 2015
Colorado Bill Would Impose Penalty On Police Interfering With Citizen Recording
OFF THE WIRE
New Colorado bill to protect our rights to record cops!
Link and video http://truthvoice.com/?p=999
In contrast to Texas legislation introduced by state representative Jason Villalba (R-Dallas) that would penalize a citizen for filming police activity within a proposed 15-foot area, lawmakers in Colorado have introduced a bill that would penalize police officers for obstructing, seizing or destroying citizen recording.
House Bill 15-1290 is one of several measures that have been introduced this month in Colorado in an effort to increase police oversight. HB 15-1290 “creates a private right of action against a peace officer’s employing law enforcement agency if a person records an incident involving a peace officer and a peace officer destroys the recording or seizes the recording without receiving consent or obtaining a warrant or if the peace officer intentionally interferes with the recording or retaliates against the person making the recording. The person who recorded the peace officer incident is entitled to actual damages, a civil penalty of $15,000, and attorney fees and costs.”
Colorado state representative and HB 15-1290 co-sponsor Joe Salazar (D-Thornton) said that “Primarily, it came up as a result of the number of news reports we’ve been seeing about police officers telling people, ‘Give me your camera,’ or taking the data away, and that is unacceptable conduct.”
Last November, man named Levi Frasier witnessed and filmed an altercation between Denver police and a drug suspect. Video captured by Frasier showed an officer delivering multiple punches to the suspect and tripping the suspect’s pregnant girlfriend. Frasier told Fox31 Denver that police seized the tablet Frasier was using to record the incident, and when the tablet was returned the video was missing. Frasier was able to retrieve the video because it had been also stored on a cloud.
In January, a woman named Bobbie Ann Diaz accused Denver police of prohibiting her daughter Brianna from filming at the scene of the death of Jessica Hernandez, a 17-year-old accused of driving a stolen car who was fatally shot by police while she was inside the vehicle. “At that time, (the officers) put Jessie down and they were on their knees yelling at Brianna that she better not record. She better not,” Diaz said.
A spokesperson for the Colorado Association of Chiefs of Police said that it doesn’t support a $15,000 penalty because of an existing process in the courts to determine if a police officer acted appropriately.
Legislation to protect the rights of citizens recording police is among several other measures that seek to provide police reform. Other measures to be considered include:
Link and video http://truthvoice.com/?p=999
In contrast to Texas legislation introduced by state representative Jason Villalba (R-Dallas) that would penalize a citizen for filming police activity within a proposed 15-foot area, lawmakers in Colorado have introduced a bill that would penalize police officers for obstructing, seizing or destroying citizen recording.
House Bill 15-1290 is one of several measures that have been introduced this month in Colorado in an effort to increase police oversight. HB 15-1290 “creates a private right of action against a peace officer’s employing law enforcement agency if a person records an incident involving a peace officer and a peace officer destroys the recording or seizes the recording without receiving consent or obtaining a warrant or if the peace officer intentionally interferes with the recording or retaliates against the person making the recording. The person who recorded the peace officer incident is entitled to actual damages, a civil penalty of $15,000, and attorney fees and costs.”
Colorado state representative and HB 15-1290 co-sponsor Joe Salazar (D-Thornton) said that “Primarily, it came up as a result of the number of news reports we’ve been seeing about police officers telling people, ‘Give me your camera,’ or taking the data away, and that is unacceptable conduct.”
Last November, man named Levi Frasier witnessed and filmed an altercation between Denver police and a drug suspect. Video captured by Frasier showed an officer delivering multiple punches to the suspect and tripping the suspect’s pregnant girlfriend. Frasier told Fox31 Denver that police seized the tablet Frasier was using to record the incident, and when the tablet was returned the video was missing. Frasier was able to retrieve the video because it had been also stored on a cloud.
In January, a woman named Bobbie Ann Diaz accused Denver police of prohibiting her daughter Brianna from filming at the scene of the death of Jessica Hernandez, a 17-year-old accused of driving a stolen car who was fatally shot by police while she was inside the vehicle. “At that time, (the officers) put Jessie down and they were on their knees yelling at Brianna that she better not record. She better not,” Diaz said.
A spokesperson for the Colorado Association of Chiefs of Police said that it doesn’t support a $15,000 penalty because of an existing process in the courts to determine if a police officer acted appropriately.
Legislation to protect the rights of citizens recording police is among several other measures that seek to provide police reform. Other measures to be considered include:
- Creating a grant program for departments to promote purchase and use of police body cameras.
- Data collection of officer-involved shootings (OIS), including the demographics and details of the incidents.
- Providing law enforcement agencies the ability to analyze a prospective officer’s job history before hiring. According to CBS Denver, officers currently can utilize non-disclosure agreements upon leaving a job to prevent access to records.
- De-escalation training and profiling prevention training for officers.
- Appointing a special prosecutor to review situations when an officer is not charged for using deadly force or excessive force.
CA - Welcome Home & Thank You Vietnam Veterans
OFF THE WIRE
Welcome Home & Thank You Vietnam Veterans
http://blog.theveteranssite.com/a-tribute-to-the-vietnam-…/…
Here is a great way to thank them. Come out and ride with them and for them! http://www.nickscomputerworks.com/.../04182015_50TH...
http://blog.theveteranssite.com/a-tribute-to-the-vietnam-…/…
Here is a great way to thank them. Come out and ride with them and for them! http://www.nickscomputerworks.com/.../04182015_50TH...
Monday, March 30, 2015
CALIFORNIA - Urgent Request From Our Legislative Director 03 28 2015 ACTION NEEDED
OFF THE WIRE
I know you’ve been inundated with legislative requests recently, but please don’t delete this but rather take ACTION. We are a motorcycle rights organization after all! Please read the Legislative Director’s message below. You will probably just have to leave a message, so you can just read the very short message under SAMPLE LETTER. Simple enough. This should take under an hour to complete … time well spent!
After calling all the representatives on the Assembly Transportation Committee (see list at bottom), it would also be good to put a call into your representative. If you don’t know your Assembly Representatives, here’s a link that will find you the information based on where you live: http://findyourrep.
Here’s a California State Assembly District Map http://www.sdvote.com/voters/
Thanks,
Urgent Request From Our Legislative Director 03 28 2015
March 28, 2015
Dear ABATE of California Members
AB 51 is coming to vote April 6 in the Assembly Transportation Committee.
As the bill is written, there will be a 30 MPH lane sharing limit, with a 10 MPH speed differential. Your ABATE PAC has voted to not support this bill in its current state. There have been attempts to negotiate different speed limits. Assembly Member Quirk has been waiting for the results of a traffic study to help determine and support modifications to the speed limits. However, the report has been delayed.
With the above in mind, I am requesting that all members contact the assembly transportation committee and the assembly members in your district requesting that they do not support AB51. Due to the time frame available please use the phone contacts provided below. Sporty said it took 30 minutes. Even on the weekend you can call these numbers and leave your message on their answering machines.
Below is a quick note that you can utilize. The Assembly Transportation committee member contact information is also below. Please do this by April 1.
I have contacted Jim Lombardo to also communicate the same position.
Thank you,
Chuck Pedersen
Legislative Director
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
SAMPLE LETTER
Dear Assemblymember,
I request that you do not support AB51, the motorcycle lane splitting bill. The bill as currently written does not fully address rider safety within the stated speed limits. Further studies should be conducted to determine the effect lane splitting speed limits.
Thanks you for your attention to this matter
Full Name
Address
City, state, zip
Committee Members
|
District
|
Office & Contact Information
|
Dem - 11
|
Capitol Office
P.O. Box 942849, Room 3091, Sacramento, CA 94249-0011; (916) 319-2011
| |
Rep - 35
|
Capitol Office
P.O. Box 942849, Room 4098, Sacramento, CA 94249-0035; (916) 319-2035
| |
Rep - 16
|
Capitol Office
P.O. Box 942849, Room 4153, Sacramento, CA 94249-0016; (916) 319-2016
| |
Dem - 50
|
Capitol Office
P.O. Box 942849, Room 2003, Sacramento, CA 94249-0050; (916) 319-2050
| |
Dem - 27
|
Capitol Office
P.O. Box 942849, Room 4016, Sacramento, CA 94249-0027; (916) 319-2027
| |
Dem - 25
|
Capitol Office
P.O. Box 942849, Room 5175, Sacramento, CA 94249-0025; (916) 319-2025
| |
Dem - 69
|
Capitol Office
P.O. Box 942849, Room 3126, Sacramento, CA 94249-0069; (916) 319-2069
| |
Dem - 04
|
Capitol Office
P.O. Box 942849, Room 2137, Sacramento, CA 94249-0004; (916) 319-2004
| |
Dem - 56
|
Capitol Office
P.O. Box 942849, Room 4162, Sacramento, CA 94249-0056; (916) 319-2056
| |
Dem - 51
|
Capitol Office
P.O. Box 942849, Room 2114, Sacramento, CA 94249-0051; (916) 319-2051
| |
Rep - 65
|
Capitol Office
P.O. Box 942849, Room 4177, Sacramento, CA 94249-0065; (916) 319-2065
| |
Rep - 60
|
Capitol Office
P.O. Box 942849, Room 2016, Sacramento, CA 94249-0060; (916) 319-2060
| |
Dem - 61
|
Capitol Office
P.O. Box 942849, Room 5135, Sacramento, CA 94249-0061; (916) 319-2061
| |
Rep - 67
|
Capitol Office
P.O. Box 942849, Room 6031, Sacramento, CA 94249-0067; (916) 319-2067
| |
Dem - 46
|
Capitol Office
P.O. Box 942849, Room 4146, Sacramento, CA 94249-0046; (916) 319-2046
| |
Dem - 70
|
Capitol Office
P.O. Box 942849, Room 4166, Sacramento, CA 94249-0070; (916) 319-2070
|
Please do NOT respond directly to this email, it is NOT monitored for incoming messages. Please DO contact us at nick.benson@abate.org or carol@abate.org for questions or information.
Thank you for being an ABATE member!
Nick Benson Sr
Board Member & Secretary
ABATE of California, INC
10240 7th AVENUE
HESPERIA, CA 92345-2631
Phone: 760.956.1669 / Fax 760.956.6519
American Legion Riders, says I can no longer play with some of you...at least not while I wear my ALR vest.
OFF THE WIRE
One of the groups I belong to, American Legion Riders, says I can no longer play with some of you...at least not while I wear my ALR vest. I don't wear it much anyway; I don't like the patch. It is a one piece but looks like a 3 piece with rockers...they call the rockers, flares...a rose is still a rose...etc. Plus it appears I can't wear my BOLT, ABATE or MMA patch or any patch that they have not deemed acceptable. Also, when you join this RIDING GROUP they want you to buy the patch/logo, like HOG does, but when I leave I have to give it back...it is their property (or so they claim). And as far as my military emblems...can't wear any unapproved patch, nor can I wear anything that suggests my rank while serving in the military, All of this is CA only. Remember my posts are "friends only" so if you want to share you may have to copy and paste.
One of the groups I belong to, American Legion Riders, says I can no longer play with some of you...at least not while I wear my ALR vest. I don't wear it much anyway; I don't like the patch. It is a one piece but looks like a 3 piece with rockers...they call the rockers, flares...a rose is still a rose...etc. Plus it appears I can't wear my BOLT, ABATE or MMA patch or any patch that they have not deemed acceptable. Also, when you join this RIDING GROUP they want you to buy the patch/logo, like HOG does, but when I leave I have to give it back...it is their property (or so they claim). And as far as my military emblems...can't wear any unapproved patch, nor can I wear anything that suggests my rank while serving in the military, All of this is CA only. Remember my posts are "friends only" so if you want to share you may have to copy and paste.
Saturday, March 28, 2015
USA - The Epidemic of Police Misconduct that No One is Talking About
OFF THE WIRE
Violent police are increasingly criticized for everything from killing dogs to shooting the homeless and beating the mentally ill. These abuses of power are disturbing and desperately need attention. But one problem with police accountability has gone completely unnoticed.
Carey Wedler
March 25, 2015
Violent police are increasingly criticized for everything from killing dogs to shooting the homeless and beating the mentally ill. These abuses of power are disturbing and desperately need attention. One under-discussed problem with police accountability (or lack thereof), however, is police irresponsibility while driving.
Stories about drunk officers driving the wrong direction on freeways and hitting civilians or soberly ramming into pedestrians are not uncommon. This week alone, three cops caused mayhem and fatalities on the road.
In New Jersey, a car of off-duty officers (who had posted a picture of whiskey shots to Instagram earlier that evening) drove the wrong direction on a freeway, killing a civilian and one of the officers in the vehicle. Two other officers were critically injured. The driving officer had a previous DUI and 8 prior accidents on record. The Police Chief of Linden, James Schulhafer, was vague in his comments, saying “We were all young once and I’m sure we’ve all done stupid things in our life.”
In Tulsa, Oklahoma, a man leaving a bar was struck and killed by an officer who carelessly hit him in a crosswalk. The officer has not been placed on administrative leave because the “investigation has not shown any improper action by the officer prior to the collision.” Police admitted the officer did not see the pedestrian, which would be considered “improper action” had a civilian been driving.
In Florida, an officer attempted to ram a motorcyclist into a center divider, then to tried to flee. This illegal action was caught on video. Police are trying to locate the motorcyclist because “…he faces several traffic charges and fleeing from an officer.”
The stories this week highlight a much bigger problem.
In Washington D.C., cops caused over 2,300 car accidents from 2010-2013 alone. They are rarely reprimanded, but the taxpayer is forced to foot the bill for settlements–just like they must do in police brutality cases.
While two of the incidents this past week are clearly (preventable) accidents, they represent not only the lack of accountability that cops enjoy–escaping punishment for things ordinary civilians cannot–but that the very justification for having police is wearing thin.
Police are often given a free pass for misdeeds because society believes that they keep people “safe.” One of the ways they do this is by policing the roads and ticketing drivers who violate traffic laws. When they give out tickets for hundreds of dollars, authorities say it is to keep people safe–whether from texting while driving, speeding, or crossing a double yellow line to enter or exit the carpool lane.
At the same time, police show a constant disregard for these exact same rules. In fact, police officers can be such abysmal drivers that in recent years, more have died from car accidents than they have actual attacks on their lives. Obviously, some of these accidents were not their fault, but a significant portion of officers were not wearing their seat belts when they died, a requirement officers routinely ticket drivers for violating.
While stories of police violence against innocent civilians are harrowing, these “run of the mill” traffic accidents represent the same problem with law enforcement on a more mundane level: that officers who shirk accountability will inevitably abuse authority–whether with their guns or their “exempt” cop cars. Just as police believe laws against murder and violence do not apply to them, they believe it is their right to drive recklessly because they possess a badge. In both instances, civilians suffer while cops live above morality and the law.
Violent police are increasingly criticized for everything from killing dogs to shooting the homeless and beating the mentally ill. These abuses of power are disturbing and desperately need attention. But one problem with police accountability has gone completely unnoticed.
Carey Wedler
March 25, 2015
Violent police are increasingly criticized for everything from killing dogs to shooting the homeless and beating the mentally ill. These abuses of power are disturbing and desperately need attention. One under-discussed problem with police accountability (or lack thereof), however, is police irresponsibility while driving.
Stories about drunk officers driving the wrong direction on freeways and hitting civilians or soberly ramming into pedestrians are not uncommon. This week alone, three cops caused mayhem and fatalities on the road.
In New Jersey, a car of off-duty officers (who had posted a picture of whiskey shots to Instagram earlier that evening) drove the wrong direction on a freeway, killing a civilian and one of the officers in the vehicle. Two other officers were critically injured. The driving officer had a previous DUI and 8 prior accidents on record. The Police Chief of Linden, James Schulhafer, was vague in his comments, saying “We were all young once and I’m sure we’ve all done stupid things in our life.”
In Tulsa, Oklahoma, a man leaving a bar was struck and killed by an officer who carelessly hit him in a crosswalk. The officer has not been placed on administrative leave because the “investigation has not shown any improper action by the officer prior to the collision.” Police admitted the officer did not see the pedestrian, which would be considered “improper action” had a civilian been driving.
In Florida, an officer attempted to ram a motorcyclist into a center divider, then to tried to flee. This illegal action was caught on video. Police are trying to locate the motorcyclist because “…he faces several traffic charges and fleeing from an officer.”
The stories this week highlight a much bigger problem.
In Washington D.C., cops caused over 2,300 car accidents from 2010-2013 alone. They are rarely reprimanded, but the taxpayer is forced to foot the bill for settlements–just like they must do in police brutality cases.
While two of the incidents this past week are clearly (preventable) accidents, they represent not only the lack of accountability that cops enjoy–escaping punishment for things ordinary civilians cannot–but that the very justification for having police is wearing thin.
Police are often given a free pass for misdeeds because society believes that they keep people “safe.” One of the ways they do this is by policing the roads and ticketing drivers who violate traffic laws. When they give out tickets for hundreds of dollars, authorities say it is to keep people safe–whether from texting while driving, speeding, or crossing a double yellow line to enter or exit the carpool lane.
At the same time, police show a constant disregard for these exact same rules. In fact, police officers can be such abysmal drivers that in recent years, more have died from car accidents than they have actual attacks on their lives. Obviously, some of these accidents were not their fault, but a significant portion of officers were not wearing their seat belts when they died, a requirement officers routinely ticket drivers for violating.
While stories of police violence against innocent civilians are harrowing, these “run of the mill” traffic accidents represent the same problem with law enforcement on a more mundane level: that officers who shirk accountability will inevitably abuse authority–whether with their guns or their “exempt” cop cars. Just as police believe laws against murder and violence do not apply to them, they believe it is their right to drive recklessly because they possess a badge. In both instances, civilians suffer while cops live above morality and the law.
Cop profiles citizen for being a frisbee golfer. Citizen shuts him down.
OFF THE WIRE
This is how cops profile. How do you stop profiling? KEEP YOUR MOUTH SHUT! You don't have to answer questions. "Thank you officer but I prefer not to answer any questions" "Am I being detained?" " I prefer not to answer any questions without an attorney present." I guess too many people are weak minded and the cops use the power of the Jedi on them. Or could it be the Vulcan Mind Melt!
VIDEO
Cop profiles citizen for being a frisbee golfer. Citizen shuts him down.
Full story here: http://bit.ly/1MEvDoe
This is how cops profile. How do you stop profiling? KEEP YOUR MOUTH SHUT! You don't have to answer questions. "Thank you officer but I prefer not to answer any questions" "Am I being detained?" " I prefer not to answer any questions without an attorney present." I guess too many people are weak minded and the cops use the power of the Jedi on them. Or could it be the Vulcan Mind Melt!
VIDEO
Cop profiles citizen for being a frisbee golfer. Citizen shuts him down.
Full story here: http://bit.ly/1MEvDoe
KANSAS - Police Implement New Policy to Treat Everyone as Criminals: When a Cop Stops You, Hands Must Go Up
OFF THE WIRE
Topeka, KS — Drivers as well as their
passengers in Topeka Kansas will soon be subject to a new policy
requiring everyone to put their hands up during police stops.
Police say they are implementing this policy because “we all want to go home to our families, and this makes it safer for us to approach vehicles to gain that compliance. It gives us a chance to survive these encounters.”
However, the implications regarding this practice are horrid, and many residents are up in arms about being forced to be up in arms.
“Every day somebody’s getting shot by a police officer, and it’s like ‘oh my goodness, will I be next?’, or will I be okay?” said one resident.
Local officers are citing the three tragic shooting deaths of officers in a two year period as the reasoning behind this policy.
“As we all know, we’ve lost three officers in less than 2 years and as a result of that we’ve had to take a hard look at the way we’re conducting business, particularly as it relates to car stops.” said TPD School Resource Officer Matt McClimans.
While this policy may seem like it has good intentions, nearly every aspect associated with it is tyrannical.
First of all, this “policy” was not approved by the taxpayers. No citizens got to vote on its implementation, and it is going to be enforced with potentially deadly force.
Secondly, it treats ALL parties stopped by police as criminals.
One resident summed it up perfectly by saying, “Make us feel safe, not automatically make us feel like criminals.”
“To put my hands up, I mean, I just can’t see how people are not offended by that,” said one resident.
Police say they are implementing this policy because “we all want to go home to our families, and this makes it safer for us to approach vehicles to gain that compliance. It gives us a chance to survive these encounters.”
However, the implications regarding this practice are horrid, and many residents are up in arms about being forced to be up in arms.
“Every day somebody’s getting shot by a police officer, and it’s like ‘oh my goodness, will I be next?’, or will I be okay?” said one resident.
Local officers are citing the three tragic shooting deaths of officers in a two year period as the reasoning behind this policy.
“As we all know, we’ve lost three officers in less than 2 years and as a result of that we’ve had to take a hard look at the way we’re conducting business, particularly as it relates to car stops.” said TPD School Resource Officer Matt McClimans.
While this policy may seem like it has good intentions, nearly every aspect associated with it is tyrannical.
First of all, this “policy” was not approved by the taxpayers. No citizens got to vote on its implementation, and it is going to be enforced with potentially deadly force.
Secondly, it treats ALL parties stopped by police as criminals.
One resident summed it up perfectly by saying, “Make us feel safe, not automatically make us feel like criminals.”
“To put my hands up, I mean, I just can’t see how people are not offended by that,” said one resident.
“I think that is too aggressive, and unnecessary, and I don’t agree with it,” said another.
“Police and community interactions are tough enough as it is and the more demands, the tougher it’s going to be, and the more problems you’re going to have,” explained a resident.
Besides treating everyone they come in contact with as a criminal, forcing people to put their hands up creates a slew of other problems as well.
How would someone hold the police accountable by filming their own interactions if they are forced to raise their hands? All too often innocent people are vindicated after being beaten and assaulted by police, only because a cell phone was recording. This would end that.
Imagine a situation in which someone tries to point their phone out of the windows while they attempt to raise their hands, the end result would not be pretty if officers mistook the phone for a gun.
What if a passenger in the vehicle is paralyzed, or temporarily disabled and they cannot raise their hands? Is this an immediate death sentence?
Finally, what about all the people who have been shot by police despite having their hands up? Looking through our archives here at the Free Thought Project, we can see that holding one’s hands up, most assuredly does not protect you from being shot by cops.
The bottom line is, while the deaths of these three officers are certainly tragic, treating every person stopped by police as a criminal is also tragic.
How about looking at WHY police are stopping people and look to reduce those interactions. Do the police really need to pull people over, en masse, for victimless crimes, such as seat belt violations?
Instead of treating everyone like criminals, why don’t police stop acting as strong arms for the state’s revenue collection racket?
Read more at http://thefreethoughtproject.com/treat-criminals-cops-implement-policy-cop-stops-you-hands/#br6veu3ggPqjqMj5.99
“Police and community interactions are tough enough as it is and the more demands, the tougher it’s going to be, and the more problems you’re going to have,” explained a resident.
Besides treating everyone they come in contact with as a criminal, forcing people to put their hands up creates a slew of other problems as well.
How would someone hold the police accountable by filming their own interactions if they are forced to raise their hands? All too often innocent people are vindicated after being beaten and assaulted by police, only because a cell phone was recording. This would end that.
Imagine a situation in which someone tries to point their phone out of the windows while they attempt to raise their hands, the end result would not be pretty if officers mistook the phone for a gun.
What if a passenger in the vehicle is paralyzed, or temporarily disabled and they cannot raise their hands? Is this an immediate death sentence?
Finally, what about all the people who have been shot by police despite having their hands up? Looking through our archives here at the Free Thought Project, we can see that holding one’s hands up, most assuredly does not protect you from being shot by cops.
The bottom line is, while the deaths of these three officers are certainly tragic, treating every person stopped by police as a criminal is also tragic.
How about looking at WHY police are stopping people and look to reduce those interactions. Do the police really need to pull people over, en masse, for victimless crimes, such as seat belt violations?
Instead of treating everyone like criminals, why don’t police stop acting as strong arms for the state’s revenue collection racket?
Read more at http://thefreethoughtproject.com/treat-criminals-cops-implement-policy-cop-stops-you-hands/#br6veu3ggPqjqMj5.99
Friday, March 27, 2015
Jonesboro, Ark. – Mad Yet? Proposed Bill Will Tax Drivers for Every Mile Driven
OFF THE WIRE
WTF did I just read?! This is the ultimate revenue generating plan! Remember all those "crazy" conspiracy theorists who said this was going to be a reality sooner or later? I think you owe them an apology.
Full report: http://goo.gl/0WdC0S
Jonesboro, Ark. – In a radical new piece of legislation, House Bill 1716, would tax Arkansas drivers for each mile they drive. The bill has passed committee and now moves to the House for a vote.
In an extreme constraint on personal liberty, the state may begin keeping track of citizen’s mileage in an effort to institute a mileage tax on Arkansas residents.
The passage of H.B. 1716 would signal the Arkansas Highway Commission to enact a pilot program. It would be similar to a test program conducted in Oregon, which would charge drivers 1.5 cents per mile driven.
In an effort to grow consistently falling gas tax revenue, some see this tax as a good way for the government to fund highway repair and upkeep. But many see this imposition as simply another example of overreach by big government.
When asked about support for the bill, one driver said, “No. I don’t agree. Not at all. They have taxed us to death.”
In an interview with ABC 8, Arkansas driver Norbert Johnson said, “You have to make a living. You can’t tax somebody for driving to work or driving to do fun events. It’s not the government’s right to do that.”
Sadly, a revenue collector utilizing the threat of force to coerce payment is exactly the position the U.S. government occupies.
While driving is consistently labeled as a “privilege” in the U.S., the right to travel is internationally recognized as a human right under Article 13 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which asserts that:
While some will inevitably claim that the freedom of movement isn’t restricted by taxation, try and tell that to someone that wishes to travel but that has no money to pay the mileage tax.
If these types of laws are allowed to come to fruition, the freedom to travel by vehicle will subsequently be limited to only those that can afford to pay the tax to do so. This will only serve to marginalize a large segment of the population; even more.
This currently manifesting dystopian reality seems starkly at odds with the vision of America as a free and prosperous country.
The symbiosis of corporate interests and politicians will inevitably win out if the people choose to remain silent and passive. Please share this article with a friend and help wake them up to the game that’s being played by big business and government at the expense of freedom and liberty.
VIDEO - http://www.kait8.com/clip/11260966/bill-would-charge-arkansas-drivers-tax-per-mile
In an extreme constraint on personal liberty, the state may begin keeping track of citizen’s mileage in an effort to institute a mileage tax on Arkansas residents.
The passage of H.B. 1716 would signal the Arkansas Highway Commission to enact a pilot program. It would be similar to a test program conducted in Oregon, which would charge drivers 1.5 cents per mile driven.
In an effort to grow consistently falling gas tax revenue, some see this tax as a good way for the government to fund highway repair and upkeep. But many see this imposition as simply another example of overreach by big government.
When asked about support for the bill, one driver said, “No. I don’t agree. Not at all. They have taxed us to death.”
In an interview with ABC 8, Arkansas driver Norbert Johnson said, “You have to make a living. You can’t tax somebody for driving to work or driving to do fun events. It’s not the government’s right to do that.”
Sadly, a revenue collector utilizing the threat of force to coerce payment is exactly the position the U.S. government occupies.
While driving is consistently labeled as a “privilege” in the U.S., the right to travel is internationally recognized as a human right under Article 13 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which asserts that:
(1) Everyone has the right to freedom of movement and residence within the borders of each state.To attempt to tax citizens for something that is considered a human right seems patently unjust.
While some will inevitably claim that the freedom of movement isn’t restricted by taxation, try and tell that to someone that wishes to travel but that has no money to pay the mileage tax.
If these types of laws are allowed to come to fruition, the freedom to travel by vehicle will subsequently be limited to only those that can afford to pay the tax to do so. This will only serve to marginalize a large segment of the population; even more.
This currently manifesting dystopian reality seems starkly at odds with the vision of America as a free and prosperous country.
The symbiosis of corporate interests and politicians will inevitably win out if the people choose to remain silent and passive. Please share this article with a friend and help wake them up to the game that’s being played by big business and government at the expense of freedom and liberty.
VIDEO: “I Don’t Answer Questions!” Witness the Power of Remaining Silent
OFF THE WIRE
Under Salinas v. Texas, it may be necessary to verbally invoke your
right to remain silent and other rights afforded during police stops by
the United States Constitution.
Thursday, March 26, 2015
3 Killed, Several Injured in Helmet Protest in Chad
OFF THE WIRE
Helmet Retailers Prosper
SCHOOLS IN CHAD CLOSED OVER VIOLENT
HELMET LAW PROTESTS: Schools and universities in
the Chadian capital of N’Djamena were closed on Tuesday,
March 10, 2015 and remained shut “until further notice”
after student rallies against motorcycle helmet laws left at
least one person dead.
The closure announced by the government of Chad in
central Africa comes a day after students took to the streets
to protest against a rise in helmet prices ever since their use
became obligatory in N’Djamena effective March 1 and
motorcyclists are now required by law to wear a helmet.
The protesters set fire to several vehicles and blocked access
to schools and universities, an Agence France-Presse
(AFP) journalist reported. Clashes broke out after security
forces used tear gas to disperse the protesters. Hospital officials
contacted by AFP said “three people were killed,
and several others were injured.”
SCHOOLS IN CHAD CLOSED OVER VIOLENT
HELMET LAW PROTESTS: Schools and universities in
the Chadian capital of N’Djamena were closed on Tuesday,
March 10, 2015 and remained shut “until further notice”
after student rallies against motorcycle helmet laws left at
least one person dead.
The closure announced by the government of Chad in
central Africa comes a day after students took to the streets
to protest against a rise in helmet prices ever since their use
became obligatory in N’Djamena effective March 1 and
motorcyclists are now required by law to wear a helmet.
The protesters set fire to several vehicles and blocked access
to schools and universities, an Agence France-Presse
(AFP) journalist reported. Clashes broke out after security
forces used tear gas to disperse the protesters. Hospital officials
contacted by AFP said “three people were killed,
and several others were injured.”
__._,_.___
CA - Charity Ride - LOST HIGHWAY “Southern California’s Largest Motorcycle Show & Concert“
OFF THE WIRE
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Sat May 30 details below, The American Heroes Ride motorcycle charity ride benefiting my American Soldier Network with a focus on the invisible wounds of war and those treating PTS/TBI as well as starting the right conversations, will take place along with the Lost Highway Toby Keith concert. I would love to invite Jay to be up front riding with our Navy Seals and other military as we ride and raise funds and awareness!
LOST HIGHWAY
“Southern California’s Largest Motorcycle Show & Concert“
Saturday, May 30 and Sunday May 31
Motorcycle Show * Weekend Camping * Concert
LOST HIGHWAY is “Southern California’s Largest Motorcycle Show & Concert“ on Friday, May 29 2015 the weekend will start with camping check-in and the official LOST HIGHWAY kick-off party. Throughout the entire day Saturday, May 30 the festivities will feature new and old school motorcycle shows with various classes, premiere motorcycle builders and motorcycle brands for attendees to check out. Throughout the day everyone will be entertained with live music on multiple stages ranging from chart topping country artists to classic rock bands and rock bands mixed with punk rock and rockabilly. Additional entertainment will include new motorcycle demos, charity motorcycle rides, motorcycle art exhibits, motorcycle stunt shows, kids corner and more.
As the sun goes down, every attendee will have the option to head in to the seated amphitheater to watch Toby Keith others live in concert.
Venue Address:
2575 Glen Helen Parkway
San Bernardino, CA 92407
Saturday, May 30 LOST HIGHWAY will host the "American Hero Ride" giving motorcyclist the opportunity to ride with Navy Seals and celebrity guests on a scenic ride escorted ride through the beautiful San Bernardino National Forest with proceeds from the ride benefiting our troops.
The ride will depart from the LOST HIGHWAY Festival Grounds at 12 noon for a 50 mile ride, to a a stop for lunch, then route riders back to the LOST HIGHWAY Festival Grounds.
LOST HIGHWAY
“Southern California’s Largest Motorcycle Show & Concert“
Saturday, May 30 and Sunday May 31
Motorcycle Show * Weekend Camping * Concert
LOST HIGHWAY is “Southern California’s Largest Motorcycle Show & Concert“ on Friday, May 29 2015 the weekend will start with camping check-in and the official LOST HIGHWAY kick-off party. Throughout the entire day Saturday, May 30 the festivities will feature new and old school motorcycle shows with various classes, premiere motorcycle builders and motorcycle brands for attendees to check out. Throughout the day everyone will be entertained with live music on multiple stages ranging from chart topping country artists to classic rock bands and rock bands mixed with punk rock and rockabilly. Additional entertainment will include new motorcycle demos, charity motorcycle rides, motorcycle art exhibits, motorcycle stunt shows, kids corner and more.
As the sun goes down, every attendee will have the option to head in to the seated amphitheater to watch Toby Keith others live in concert.
Venue Address:
2575 Glen Helen Parkway
San Bernardino, CA 92407
Saturday, May 30 LOST HIGHWAY will host the "American Hero Ride" giving motorcyclist the opportunity to ride with Navy Seals and celebrity guests on a scenic ride escorted ride through the beautiful San Bernardino National Forest with proceeds from the ride benefiting our troops.
The ride will depart from the LOST HIGHWAY Festival Grounds at 12 noon for a 50 mile ride, to a a stop for lunch, then route riders back to the LOST HIGHWAY Festival Grounds.
Ann "Annie" Nelson
CEO / Founder
CEO / Founder
Our Story http://www.youtube.com/
Twitter: @theAnnieNelson
American Soldier Network Twitter @forRtroops
FaceBook.com/
Facebook.com/theAnnieNelson
LinkedIn Annie@americansoldiernetwork.