Here’s an excerpt from my friend Cyril’s blog www.cyrilhuzeblog.com. It was a response to a post from Pepper of the Sturgis Rally and needs your attention!
…And speaking of freedom, let’s not forget the grassroots movement in this country, and around the world, who represent riders, who are generally unaware of the battles that are still being fought so they have the right to ride. Currently Florida is trying to pass legislation that will allow your motorcycle to be confiscated should you do something illegal. Not fine you, not take away your endorsement for six months, but confiscate your property. It is aimed at sportbike riders but a motorcycle is a motorcycle…
SB-802 GENERAL BILL by Garcia (Compare HB-137)
“Motorcycles or Mopeds/Reckless Driving [EPCC]; Provides that if a person is operating or is in actual physical control of a motorcycle while driving recklessly, a law enforcement officer shall arrest the person, take him or her into custody, and seize the motorcycle. Requires that a person riding on a motorcycle or moped must ride while sitting astride the seat with one leg on each side and with both wheels on the ground at all times, etc.”
Editor’s Note – Here’s the problem I see, when you pass legislation like this it leaves too much interpretation up to the arresting officer, and we all know how that CAN go. I too understand what they mean here but who is to say what will happen if you leave the police with this much latitude. Maybe riding with one hand on the bars is reckless, maybe a foot dragging on the ground, in any case, it’s much too vague to let them take your motorcycle away. There is an ABATE in eery state and you can search for your chapter by searching abate of (your state) or go to the Motorcycle Riders Foundation at http://www.mrf.org/ But either way, like Pepper said in her post, get involved and help fight for freedom.