Attention MSF Coaches and concerned MA riders
0
I’m asking for your help in writing or emailing Governor Patrick to ask him to sign “Ryan’s Bill” into law.
Ryan’s Bill is named for Ryan Orcutt, a 16 year-old who died last March riding his Brother’s Motorcycle. Although the bill existed prior to that, his fellow students at SouthEastern Regional High School asked the MMA to rename the bill in Ryan’s honor.
I’ve personally met Roger Orcutt, Ryan’s Dad, and his passion for his sons runs deep – although he misses Ryan every day, he’s taken this bill on as his own. Roger told me, “$300 for a training course? Peanuts!! Ryan should have done that!”
After 2 years of very slow progress, this bill has passed the Senate (unanimously) and the House, but is now sitting with Governor Patrick. Since the Legislature is no longer in session, if Governor Patrick doesn’t sign it by Sunday, August 8th, the Bill Dies (pocket veto).
Some key points:
S.2344, aka “Ryan’s Bill” pertains to equalizing the driver and rider education requirements for 16-18 year-olds – in other words, you are required in MA to have Driver Education in order to drive a car, but you can take a 25 question test at the RMV and hop on the saddle of a 1200cc Motorcycle!
According to the RMV, Approximately 80% of Motorcycle Fatalities every year for the past 9 years had NO RIDER EDUCATION!
Approximately ¼ of those are under the age of 21.
A short note to the Governor asking him to sign it could go a very long way – a note from an Instructor would mean a lot… Your friends and family, would also be welcome to add to the numbers…
Fax is typically the best way to reach the governor:
http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=gov3util...ov3_contact_us
Honorable Deval Patrick, Governor
Massachusetts State House
Office of the Governor
Room 280
Boston, MA 02133
Fax: 617.727.9725
Very much appreciate your interest!
Originally Posted by 5TOEZ
Reply With Quote
