What things are happening you may ask? The legislative general session is in full swing. They will be setting the biennial budget, funding education, trying to figure out how to fund road and bridge repair and maintenance for the next 20 years, plus myriad other things.
As I write this there is one bill, we as motorcyclist that represent all riders in the State, are keeping an eye on. That is HB1200, a house bill introduced by Representative Lloyd Arnold. If you haven't heard about the bill, if passed it will require all ATV riders under 18 years of age to wear a helmet. That explanation is just basics, go to iga.in.gov to read the entire bill. Representative Ron Bacon is wanting to add an amendment that requires rider education. That would present some problems that would be difficult to adhere to once passed. Particularly funding, opportunities and enforcement. As you read this if encourage you to go to the legislative web site and see if it was added.
ABATE of Indiana is unlikely to oppose this bill. It basically mirrors the law we have about wearing helmets on the State's streets and highways. Unless there is a horrific amendment, it is tough to oppose a bill meant to protect children.
HB1200's first hearing was scheduled for January 18th. That was the day after ABATE Day at the State House. If you were at the State House on the 17th, I hope you spoke with your Representative and Senator about HB1200. If you were at the ABATE Day at the State House, I want to send a thank you, your way.
Next month I will write about deadlines for the general session. This year is the long session and it will not be over until April.
Until then, when the weather is nice RIDE far, RIDE safe and RIDE FREE!
Later,
Mike Meyer
State LINC Director
