ABATE of Minnesota Legislative Positions

No Change to the Adult Motorcycle Helmet Law

ABATE of Minnesota does not support any changes to the Minnesota adult motorcycle helmet law, which requires those under 18 and those on a learners permit to wear a helmet while allowing adults the choice to wear or not to wear a helmet while operating a motorcycle

Increased Penalties for Careless Driving

Each year, motorcyclists, pedestrians, bicyclists, vehicle drivers and passengers are killed by other motorists who enter the roadway into their path, turn left into their path, or otherwise cause accidents by failing to yield right of way. Currently these misdemeanor citations if they vehicle operator is found to be sober and licensed. ABATE of Minnesota feels that Minnesota should strengthen the penalties for those who kill others while driving in a negligent manner when not alcohol or drug related, and raise the offense to the level of gross misdemeanor.

Safeguard Motorcycle Safety Funds

There is a Minnesota Motorcycle Safety Fund which is used for motorcycle safety training, motorcycle safety promotion, and public awareness campaigns.  This program is funded with the money motorcyclists pay when they apply for or renew their motorcycle endorsement.  Since this money is paid by motorcyclists for motorcycle safety, ABATE of Minnesota opposes any efforts to "raid" the Motorcycle Safety Fund to balance the state budget.