I was pleasantly surprised by the mutual support for the left turn bill on Black Thursday. It seems our bi-partisan efforts with HB 2919 being put to our Representatives and Senators helped spark some attention to bring forward HB 1625. The only problem is that it became SHB 1625 with the insurance amendment cluttering our left turn bill, put forth by Geoff Simpson. Mandatory insurance to make a left turn on a red light, when there is no Mandatory motorcycle insurance in Washington State. SHB (HB) 1625 would be the same language as HB 2919 if it had the mandatory insurance amendment removed.
Does that mean we would also have to have mandatory insurance to make a right turn at a red light, after coming to a complete stop and yielding to all traffic? Would any motorcyclist in his right mind pull out in front of any vehicle even another motorcycle just to make a turn? I think not! I am hoping that by the time this newsletter is distributed that the bill will have gone through the senate transportation committee and had the insurance language removed and on to the floor for a vote and then back to the House for a concurrence vote. At that point Geoff Simpson and any other dissenting members would only have a single “no” vote. Having already passed the house at 86 to 8, there should not be a problem.
When we all threw our support together behind one bill in particular, it seemed like we were getting somewhere and someone was listening. We have many motorcycling issues that could, would, do affect all motorcyclists but if we could all pull together and support one main goal, I do believe we are more likely to succeed. One possible issue that my need to be looked at is to keep motorcycles from being taken out of the car pool lanes, especially with the new pay for HOV lane travel. Just one possible suggestion. Of course we can never forget our goal of “Freedom of Choice” for helmets.
I have requested through emails, legislative alerts on the ABATE of Washington web page, and personal conversations with members and other motorcyclists to contact their Representatives and Senators. I was pleased when an ABATE member called me and reported that they had received a phone call from their Senators aid thanking them for the contact and that they would support motorcyclists issues. This member was pleased as it shows contacting them does count. It works!! For all those who have taken the time out of their busy lives to fight for their rights, remember that there are rewards. We may not win every battle, but we will win the war with brotherhood and grass roots participation.
There have been several chapter events happening already and many more to come. The calendar seems to be filling up. The Spring swap meet will have taken place already and even with the forced date change, that it will be a good event. All chapters need to make sure they get their info and flyers into the newsletter and the website. There are no guaranty that because it went to one place that it automatically goes to the other place.
I have met with several chapters since the first of the year and I’m available to any chapter and/or member at any time for information and/or help in keeping their chapter viable and in compliance with our Bylaws. If you need help, or just want to talk, contact me by email or telephone and leave messages. I have also been in contact with other organizations including, but not limited to: Washington Road Riders Association (WRRA), the Evergreen Safety Council, the Washington State Motorcycling, Safety Council, the Dept. of Licensing (DOL), and some brand name riding clubs to educate their memberships regarding ABATE and to promote ABATE at their functions. I have been remiss in attending chapter functions or meetings on the “other” side of the hill, but when the passes ever open and allow motorcycle traffic, I will be there!
I do hope that my next report will be congratulating us on our “left turn victory”.
Respectfully Submitted,
Mike Campbell
ABATE of Washington
Ambassador-at-Large
Washington State MRF Co-Rep