A.B.A.T.E. of Louisiana
Rally at the Capitol
On March 14, 2016 we held our 3th Annual
Rally at the Capitol and turnout was awesome! Bikers
from across our state joined together to talk with
legislators about issues that affect motorcycling. We
are working on some great bills this year. We have
for many years championed the idea that helmet
usage for adult riders should not be dictated by
the government. We believe in safety equipment!
However, we believe that it should be your choice.
There is a bill in the house that addresses this issue.
HB 337 restricts the safety helmet requirement to
motorcycle operators and riders under the age of
21. We believe Louisiana would be able to attract
more tourism and tax revenue if this bill becomes
law. Another bill (HB 248) will allow for the issuance
of “In God We Trust” specialty license plate for
motorcycles. Our GNO Chapter Vice-President and
motorcycle attorney Glen McGovern has championed
a bill (SB 171) with enhanced penalties if a car driver
fails to yield. The failure to yield includes situations in
which there is no stop or yield sign. This bill is aimed
at protecting all public road users and pedestrians
from distracted drivers. In addition, we are currently
12
talking with legislators about a bill that would allow
lane splitting under certain conditions. Lane Splitting
at low speeds can help reduce traffic congestion
in metropolitan areas. Lane Splitting research
from California indicates a 30 percent reduction
in motorcyclist being rear ended. Please call your
representatives and ask them to vote in favor of these
bills!
We had a great time at the State Capitol and
we are looking forward to another great year in
working to protect the rights of motorcyclists! We
had the opportunity to talk briefly with our new
Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser. We look forward to
working with him in helping our great state attract
a greater amount of motorcycle related tourism! If
you would like to become a member of A.B.A.T.E. of
Louisiana go to our website (abateoflouisiana.com)
and contact a chapter near you! We look forward to
seeing you on the road!
Ride Safe, Ride Free
Donnie R. Brown M.B.A.
State Legislative Coordinator
A.B.A.T.E. of Louisiana
13