Members of the Concerned Bikers Association (CBA) were on Thursday’s edition of WIZS Town Talk program to discuss their support of four proposed NC House bills that would grant more freedom and ensure better safety precautions for motorcyclists.
According to Charlie Boone, legislative director for the state CBA, the group’s primary mission is “to get legislation introduced that is favorable to motorcyclists and to try to put a stop to legislation that is not favorable.”
Boone said the CBA is in support of current House Bill 144 or the “Hands-Free NC” Act that would place restrictions on making cell phone calls while operating a motor vehicle. Exceptions would include the use of a speakerphone, Bluetooth or similar hands-free technology; texting while driving in NC is already illegal.
Members of the Concerned Bikers Association (CBA) were on Thursday’s edition of WIZS Town Talk program to discuss their support of four proposed NC House bills that would grant more freedom and ensure better safety precautions for motorcyclists. Pictured left to right: Charlie Boone, legislative director for the CBA, WIZS’ Brandi Leigh Beck, David Whitfield, vice president of the Granville Co. Chapter of the CBA, and Johnny Brogden, president of the Granville Co. Chapter of the CBA. (WIZS photo)
The CBA also stands behind House Bill 104 that addresses grass clippings from mown lawns being blown into roadways.
Admitting that many people aren’t aware of the dangers this presents to motorcyclists and bicyclists, Boone said clippings, especially wet clippings, can become very slick and cause accidents.
“This started out as a very simple bill, then became very complicated, and now we’ve gotten it back to a simple bill again, said Boone. “It seems people are more concerned about who is liable and what it’s going to cost them than they are with lives that are going to be saved by passing this very simple bill.”
Another long-discussed law change that the CBA supports is House Bill 257 or the “Motorcycle/Face Mask bill.” Under current law, it is illegal for anyone in NC to cover their face or hide their identity while out in public.
The CBA would like to see an exception to this law that allows motorcyclists to wear a mask in cold weather to protect their face from the elements. “This bill has gone through the House and is waiting for the Senate to take action later this year,” explained Boone.
Perhaps the most controversial of the bills the CBA supports, the “Freedom of Choice” Bill would allow motorcyclists the choice to wear a helmet or go without while riding. To be eligible for this choice, riders would be required to have a motorcycle endorsement on their license for at least a year or successfully complete the required safety course.
According to Boone this topic has always been controversial and has been a discussion among motorcycle groups and the State Legislature for years.
“People are under the mistaken idea that their health and vehicle insurance will rise in cost if we pass the Freedom of Choice Bill. Statistics do not bear that out,” said Boone.
Boone said the group is hopeful that the bill will be heard next week in the House’s Transportation Committee hearing.
In addition to offering NC motorcyclists the freedom to ride helmetless, Boone believes the passing of this bill could bring in tourism dollars from out-of-state riders who want the same freedom.
To hear the Town Talk interview with the CBA in its entirety, click here.