A publication supporting the rights, safety and freedom of all motorcyclists through education and not legislation.
FEBRUARY 2012
VOLUME XX, ISSUE X
Nonprofit Org US Postage Paid Permit #1662 Phoenix, AZ
takin’ it to the streets
abateofaz.org
ABATE of AZ. 7509 N. 12th St, #200 Phoenix, AZ 85020
beginnings to conversations, when you urge your representatives to pass them.
Representative Jerry Weirs is sponsoring bills HB2074 Motorcycles: lane advancement and HB2077 Motorcycle Operations: riding between lanes. If passed they will be effective from and after August 30, 2013. In other states that have adopted Lane Advancement for motorcycles they found that there is: increased visibility for the motorcyclist, allowing the rider to proactively maneuver based on traffic conditions ahead and it reduces the percent of motorcycle rear-end collisions. You may want to familiarize yourself with these bills as they can be good
“Motorcycle Day at the Dome! Wednesday February 22nd, 2012 – On the Senate Lawn! Have you made plans to be there? Please mark your calendar and take advantage of the opportunity to talk to your Legislators one on one. We are hoping for a more personal exchange with our legislators and the opportunity of having all motorcyclists in Arizona become familiar with the process. Call ahead and make an appointment if possible, this is the first year we’re attempting a more personal visit and we can’t expect the legislators to be available at the last minute. Don’t be disappointed if you are seen by your legislators’ aide, sometimes the legislators are called to the floor unexpectedly for a vote.
The beauty of the MDATD is that we get to know who the people are that are making some very important decisions for us. Whether it’s a law effecting motorcyclists or one that affects
you as a home owner or parent, you want them to know who you are. You can build relationships with them on this level that can carry over to other areas. This is an election year and many legislators are up for reelection, offer to help with their campaign. You may not be able to donate much money, but you could volunteer your time, whether it’s handing out fliers, answering phone calls or knocking on doors. Remember, we’re not having a luncheon this year and it is certainly a step into the unknown. I’ve heard pros and cons on the issue, but I hope the new approach will be the beginning of more dialog and mutual respect. We as a community have the opportunity to make the first move to become involved in the process. It is much more difficult than offering food; it means we are actually offering support. Carole O’Reilly Designated Lobbyist