The Massachusetts Motorcycle Association (MMA) announced to its membership today that New Hampshire House Bill 95 had been officially defeated by the NH House of Representatives on Thursday, 12 February 2009.
In prior correspondence the MMA warned that, “The MMA has identified legislation being proposed in our neighboring state of New Hampshire, House Bill 95 – AN ACT relative to motorcycle equipment and noise levels. This bill, if passed, would prohibit the use of after-market exhaust systems, require tachometers, and increase penalties for non-compliance in the state of NH.”
Opposed by the MMA, New Hampshire MRO, and the Motorcycle Riders Foundation (a national organization), the bill, filed by NH State Representatives Judith Day, John Henson, and Susan Kepner would create significant burden not only on Motorcyclists around New England, but on the regional shop owners who provide services to Motorcyclists such as repairs and customization but also lodging, food, as well as other travel and tourist-related functions.
The MMA’s detailed position statement was sent to its membership, Motorcyclists around New England, as well as in correspondence to legislators throughout the state of New Hampshire. Members of the MMA Board of Directors also visited the New Hampshire State House in support of the Motorcyclists of that state during the hearing on this bill on January 21st. For full details of prior correspondence concerning the MMA position and results of their visit to the New Hampshire State House, please see the MMA Website (http://www.massmotorcycle.org).
On February 3rd, the New Hampshire House Transportation Committee voted unanimously in opposition to this bill while in executive session. The official recommendation of “ITL” (“Inexpedient to Legislate”) was brought before the full NH House of Representatives Yesterday who followed the direction of the committee to dispense with the bill.
In correspondence with the MRF, New Hampshire State Senator Bob Letourneau, chairman of the NH Senate Transportation Comittee commented, "New Hampshire motorcyclists deserve better than what HB 95 would have legislated and I am pleased to see that my colleagues in the House chamber have defeated the measure".
New Hampshire State House of Representative Republican Leader Sherman Packard added, "In my 35 years fighting for motorcyclists' rights this is the most anti-motorcycling bill I have seen and I am pleased that the House took appropriate action."
Regarding the MMA’s involvement, Dave Condon, Chairman of the Massachusetts Motorcycle Association noted that “the MMA has been fighting for the rights of Motorcyclists in the state of Massachusetts since 1975… Far too often we are singled out with anti-motorcycle behaviors while the vast majority of us are respectful, law abiding citizens who pump millions of dollars into the economy, support numerous charities, and are far better educated and behaved concerning the safety and rights of all motorists who share the roadways. I am very proud of the MMA Membership’s quick and thorough response to this issue.”
In correspondence with the MMA, Jennifer Coffey, NH Representative and member of the New Hampshire House Transportation Committee wrote, "I am happy to say HB95 was killed in the New Hampshire House today. The hundreds of citizens from the New England area who took the time to be sure their voices where heard by the Legislators proved invaluable. Organizations such as the MMA and their ability to organize, communicate, and work with legislators shows what can be accomplished when the one becomes the many."
Doc D’Errico, Legislative Director of the MMA was extremely pleased to add that, “although this bill was filed in New Hampshire, it was obvious that it would have severe impact on the riders of Massachusetts and across New England. The MMA takes great pride in our membership’s ability to react, but also to do so in a way that respectfully educates the non-Motorcycling legislators of the facts versus the fiction and myth surrounding motorcycles. The MMA Board and I couldn’t be more pleased with the result of this effort.”
The MMA extends its sincere appreciation to its membership and the New Hampshire House of Representatives, especially those of the Transportation Committee, for their thorough investigation and respect of the rights of Motorcyclists across New England.
For more information, contact: legislativedirector@massmotorcycle.org