redduck19..@gmail.com
My letter to Senator Boquist:
Senator Boquist-
I am writing to express my concerns with senate bills 177 and 551, regarding bicycle registration and licensing,both of which you sponsored.
As a business owner, I feel these bills will negatively affect bicycle tourism in our state. As of the most recent study, bicycle tourism accounts for over 400 million dollars per year in Oregon. Oregon is viewed as a bicycle friendly state and passage of these bills would tarnish that reputation and send these tourist dollars elsewhere.
As a taxpayer, I am aware that similar programs have been tried elsewhere, and the revenues generated have always failed to meet the costs of administering the program.
As someone who drives on Oregon’s highways for both work and recreation, I realize that every bicycle on the road represents one less car and thus less congestion on our roadways.
As a cyclist, I know that these bills would have the effect of de-funding bicycle infrastructure in our state. Not only will this impact tourism as stated above, but many of our citizens are barely able to make ends meet and they deserve access to a safe, inexpensive means of transportation.
In short, the negatives of these bills far outweigh any possible positive outcomes, and I urge you to withdraw your support.
Thank You.
Thom Batty
The Bike Concierge
http://thebikeconcierge.com/
https://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Bike-Concierge/1452795371649823
503-314-6095
From: Tom Orth via OBRA
Sent: Tuesday, February 3, 2015 6:39 PM
To: rondot@spiritone.com
Cc: OBRA List
This bill is an example of the culture war nonsense that has infected our country. Why would a Republican, someone who should be opposed to new regulations and forms of taxes, propose a brand new regulation on something for which no data suggests a need for such regulation? Clearly it's because this particular form of freedom is one that he doesn't like. It can't be taken seriously as anything but a culture war skirmish. Anyone capable of drafting this bill will not be convinced to suddenly appreciate the benefits of cycling. Write to your own senator to urge them to vote against this nonsense.
On Tue, Feb 3, 2015 at 5:43 PM, rondot--- via OBRA wrote:
Thanks for the heads up Kenji!
obra-ites,
Below is what I sent to the senator (I actually included my address). This is not about me....but another call for him to get more input.
This elected official really does need to hear from people...........maybe not as negatively as my note, but let his eyes see what you think people!
ron
Senator Boquist,
Senate bill 551 makes no real sense. If you actually care about the people of this state and the environment, you should be using your taxpayer funded time and salary to work to make bicycling of all sorts EASIER for people, not add more roadblocks.
Bicycling does a great deal for the economy, environment, livability of communities as well as physical and mental health for riders. You, Mr. Senator should be doing things to make all sorts of cycling access easier for people all across this state. Children can develop a healthy lifetime activity that provide these benefits at a low cost if a person has little money for a bike, or the same benefits if they can afford a more expensive bike. Young and old need people like you to make it as easy as possible to own and ride a bike. I urge you reverse your support for SB 551. Admit it was a misguided vision that will take us nowhere.
Actually, I urge you to start riding a bike as a means of transportation. You probably will begin to think more clearly because of the positive impact on your life.
I know a bike does not have a heater or air conditioner. What it has to offer is an actual connection to the world in which we live.
There are more important things for you to use your time as a Senator on than this....like outlawing studded tires on automobiles for example with regard to transportation issues..........or raising the gasoline tax a good deal to make people consider driving less or consider a more fuel efficient vehicle. Come on man! Senate Bill 551 is a stellar example of small thinking. Get rid of it.
Thanks,
Ron Strasser
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