DEDICATED TO FREEDOM OF THE ROAD - LET THOSE WHO RIDE DECIDE FIGHT FOR YOUR RIGHTS

Transcription

1 ABATE of Florida, Inc. Polk County Chapter The Iron Press DEDICATED TO FREEDOM OF THE ROAD - LET THOSE WHO RIDE DECIDE February 2017 Vol 40 issue 13 FIGHT FOR YOUR RIGHTS The legislature is trying to pass a mandatory helmet law. Protect your rights to ride with the wind in your hair. Join in our fight to protect freedom of choice. ABATE of Florida, Inc. Polk County Chapter

2 Our Mission Statement: WHO WE ARE ABATE is a non-profit organization of motorcycle enthusiast from all walks of life. We lobby and educate the government and general public to promote motorcycling in a safe and positive image. We endeavor to enlist the cooperation and participation of all organizations and individuals that share a similar interest in preserving our American tradition of Freedom. We promote motorcycle safety, training & political awareness. We ARE NOT A CLUB OR A GANG. We fund our work through toy runs, poker runs, campouts, and other motorcycle activities. We are your neighbors and friends who work, pay taxes, and get involved with our community. We serve and support our country and believe in freedom. We use all legal means to protect our rights without infringing on the rights of others. ABATE of Florida, Inc. is incorporated under the laws of Florida as a motorcycle rights organization or a MRO. ABATE of Florida, Inc. currently is the only political MRO in Florida representing the interests of it s members and the motorcycling public at large. ABATE of Florida, Inc. is dedicated to securing and protecting the rights of all motorcyclists in the state ABATE S Objectives are to: Keep all bikers informed on legislative actions and events that affect their safety and rights. Be a powerful political force in legislation that affects Motorcycle safety and rights. Provide a lobbyist that will represent ABATE interests at State and National levels. Promote voter registration and to motivate members to speak up for their rights. Promote safety without infringing on individual rights and freedoms. Educate the public and Motorcycle Awareness and safety Issues. ABATE s Accomplishments: ABATE was the driving force behind the changes in Florida s Helmet Law. Florida Motorcyclist, over the age of 21 and who carry at least $10,000 medical insurance coverage now enjoy the Freedom to Choose whether to wear a helmet or not. ABATE has developed & copyrighted The Motorcycle Safety & Awareness Program (MSAP). The program is presented to non-motorcyclists to educate them on how to safely share the road with motorcycles. It is taught in local schools & to civic organizations at no charge in the hope of reducing motorcycle accidents and deaths through education, not legislation. ABATE had gained a positive and respected position in Tallahassee. Because of our Lobbyist and Legislative efforts, State Representatives are aware of ABATE members and our vigilant quest. ABATE reminds travelers every day to Look Twice Save a Life, Motorcycles are everywhere through our billboard campaign. Disclaimer The views expressed in this newsletter are not necessarily those of ABATE of Polk County Chapter or ABATE of Florida Inc. This newsletter encourages all members to submit ABATE related material, photos, events, and commentaries, etc. ABATE of Florida, Inc. and the Polk County Chapter of ABATE accepts no responsibility for the comments, views or opinions contained in the newsletter. Polk County Chapter reserves the right to edit or omit any article submitted for publication. All materials submitted to Polk County Chapter for use in this letter becomes property of the chapter. Guidelines for Submissions ABATE of Florida, Inc. Polk County Chapter 1

3 Members are asked to submit articles, photos and other materials that would be of interest to their fellow members by 11:00pm on Friday following the Meeting. All board members are encouraged to submit their articles as soon as possible following the monthly meeting. Please do not submit slanderous or accusing letters, profanity or nudity. Identification Statement ABATE of Florida, Inc. Polk County Chapter PO Box 2743 Lakeland, FL ABATE of Florida, Inc. Polk County Chapter 1

4 Position Name President James Doc Reichenbach Vice President Darrin Scribe Brooks Secretary Shelly Johnston Treasurer Patti Nasrallah Sgt. at Arms Marcus Hotelling PR/Communications Sally Carroll Webmaster Dan Slo Mo Henderson Masterlink Editor C/O State Office Membership Laurie Hanley Safety Program Victor Piorkwski Legislative Darrin Scribe Brooks Products Steve Caretaker Knee Legal Larry Crow Position Name Phone President Mark Zman Zinser Vice President Greg Vernon Secretary Laneata McDermott (Lo) Treasurer Ralph Snearly Sgt. at Arms Tim Roadmap McDermott Membership Darlin Deb Daggett Safety Rawson (Rusty) Goff Products Laneata McDermott (Lo) PR Ida Holland Legislative ZMan Delegates Tim Roadmap McDermott Dewey Cain Newsletter Ida Holland Webmaster Steve Ammerman ABATE of Florida, Inc. Polk County Chapter

5 3 Z man PRESIDENTS LETTER FEB NEWSLETTER Hey y all, hope all is well for my fellow ABATERs and their families! Wow, that first month of the year went by too fast, but what beautiful riding weather we have! How sweet to live in a year round riding state! What a great year ABATE of Polk County had in Not one, but TWO Skills on Wheels Rodeos, another famous Toy Run for Polk County kids, for Christmas, participating in the State Events, A Biker Bash Weekend and a Gun Raffle to boot!! Now it s time to look forward into The TALLY RALLY is the second weekend of April, with the ride to the Capitol Building Monday, April 10 to meet with our Legislators, and show them there are lots of us who vote and are watching their actions concerning motorcycling issues. Most of those going will spend a night up there. Also, we have set the date for our next Rodeo, Saturday, May 6. We also are going to have a gun raffle, with details worked out at the January meeting. More details coming on all of these events. A MANDATORY HELMET LAW repealing the 21 and over can choose option has been introduced in Tallahassee. Yep, a representative (WHO WORKS FOR US!!) has decided that THEY know what s best for us instead of allowing the freedom of choice! This is a call out to ALL ABATE OF FLORIDA MEMBERS to call and their legislators to oppose this potential loss of liberty and rights!! Please read through the LEGISLATIVE REPORT in this newsletter to find out how simple (and effective) you can be with just a phone call and . No one else can be depended on except US!!!! All the information you need is there! This is truly a chance to show that the squeaky wheel gets the grease!! Legislators are much more likely to respond to voters who send mail and call because they know they re being watched!! If you have never called / ed your representative, NOW IS THE TIME!! This is the main reason ABATE EXISTS!! Tell your fellow riders, if they want to keep the freedom of deciding to wear a helmet, call their representative. Give them the information we have, and if they aren t members of ABATE, now is more reason than ever to join!! As always, I m looking forward to seeing lots of you at our next meeting, Feb. 19, at 1pm, at the Boondocks, North 98, Lakeland. You DO NOT have to be a member to come, we welcome all. RIDE SAFE AND ENJOY, Zman

6 4 Greg Vernon Hey all Thanks to all for attending our last meeting. Welcome new members. Bike week is right around the corner, if you go please be attentive to all your surroundings. Now we are going to be getting things organized for our upcoming motorcycle rodeo and please bring your fresh ideas and input to our next meeting for this event. Ride Safe & Ride Free Greg Vernon; VP Lo January 15, 2017 ABATE of Florida, Inc., Polk County Chapter Meeting MINUTES The Boondocks, 8185 US 98 North, Lakeland, Florida; THANK YOU to today s meeting attendees: Lo Alexander, Ida Holland, Z Man, Don Jones, Bill Hardy, Charlene Cline (Charlie), Gerald Elliot, Steve Ammerman, Ralph Snearly, Joe Imbrogno, Kathy Imbrogno, Emmitt Wooten, Lisa Wooten, Rick Lock, Tim McDermott, Linda Vernon, Greg Vernon, Rusty Goff, Jenni Stapleton, Melvin Gulley, Judith Gulley, Mike Gray, Aaron McCormick, 1:10 The Pledge of Allegiance and Moment of Silence were led by President Z Man. He welcomed everyone and suggested we think about the next rodeo. VP, Greg Vernon discussed possible fund raising activities. More discussion followed. The group decided to have the RODEO Saturday, May 6, All agreed.

7 5 Secretary, Lo Alexander announced that all the old business was wrapped up. There were no corrections noted to December s Minutes. UNANIMOUS ACCEPTANCE Treasurer, Ralph Snearly delivered his usual comprehensive report. UNANIMOUS ACCEPTANCE Sgt. At Arms, Tim McDermott thanked all who participated in the TARPON SPRINGS run. Mike said it was the most organized run he had been on. Tim also praised this morning s fun run and apologized for our being late. Membership, Deb Daggett was absent and excused. Z Man read her report RE: whose dues were due. Safety Officer, Rusty Goff is back and in good health. PR and Newsletter, Ida Holland suggested a new game for the Skills on Wheels Rodeo. Products, Lo Alexander offered black TOYRUN shirts at a discount. Bring your spare change to next month s meeting. There might be more sales. Legislation, Z Man told us that the same subjects: texting, red-light cameras, concealed weapons were still being debated. Watch out for HB This is the helmet bill wrapped up in safety concerns. Defend your right, as an adult, to wear what you want on your bike. Call or write your REPRESENTATIVE in Congress. Find addresses and names in Z Man s article in this newsletter. Webmaster, Steve Ammerman suggested that we visit some moto sites. <POLKCOUNTY MOTORCYCLERIDERS> is a real good one. OLD BUSINESS: Steve and Ralph worked on the ABATE business card for us. Ralph will bring some to the next meeting. NEW BUSINESS: The Skills on Wheels Motorcycle Rodeo will be May 6 at the BOONDOCKS. Good of the Order: Mike Gray is 75 and still rides his scooter. He suggests that members buy him a beverage. [We agree but would add that all septuagenarians on wheels be offered a refreshing libation.] THANK YOU to GINNY and her fine staff for the excellent hospitality and courtesy during our time at the Boondocks. Adjourn: Gerry moved and all agreed at 2:10 Respectfully Submitted, Lo Alexander January 18, 2017

8 6 CLASSIFIEDS.. Ads are free to Abate Members. Firewood for sale!!! Call Wood located at 6411 Stroud Rd, Kathleen, FL. Call Dave to set up time and get prices. 10% off for all ABATE members. Tee Shirts If interested in purchasing one please contact Lo McDermott, Want to Ride? Tim McDermott (better known as Roadmap ) is going on a FUN RUN before our meeting on Feb. 19th. He would love for you to join him!! If you re interested meet at the Brunch Box on Memorial ave. at 8:00 am if you want to have breakfast first, KSU 9:00 am sharp. Come early and have breakfast with us.

9 PR Ida Holland Hey Ya All Looks like the upcoming year is going to be fun filled. Looking forward to seeing everyone at the events. Remember to tell your friends about our events. Remember to check the upcoming events for other things going on in ABATE. Ida Ride Daily and Ride Safe Darlin Deb Membership Report: November 2016 Newsletter Total Members: 142 Welcome New Members: Aaron McCormick Thank you to our Renewing Members: Kevin Cullison, Mark Zinser, Deb Daggett, Don Jones, Vicki Bradshaw and Linda Vernon ABATE of Florida, Inc. Polk County Chapter 7

10 8 Reminder for Renewal: Please check your membership cards Due in December: Vern Kreuser Due in February: Greg Vernon, Charles Wallner, Due in March: William Ford Jr, Jeff Schilling, Reminder for Renewal: Please check your membership cards Past Due in November: Bill Howe, Cathy Howe Due in December: Vern Kreuser Due in January: Vicki Bradshaw, Don Jones, John Gsellman, Tom Lowndes, Linda Vernon Due in February: Kevin Cullison, Greg Vernon, Charles Wallner, Mark Zinser Please renew a month early to avoid expiring and losing your years of continuous membership. Dues can be paid at our Chapter meeting or mailed to our PO Box 2743 Lakeland, FL If you need to update your contact information or address or did not receive your renewal card, please send me an with your correct information at membershipabatepolk@hotmail.com or mail updates to Abate of Florida Inc. Polk County Chapter P.O. Box 2743 Lakeland, FL Abate of Florida Inc. Polk County Chapter P.O. Box 2743 Lakeland, FL 33816

11 9 Zman LEGISLATIVE REPORT FEB NEWSLETTER Hey y all. Hope all is well for my fellow ABATERs and families. There is lots of Legislative stuff in this report, but first I m gonna repeat some of last months information regarding the Helmet Law introduced because of the urgency for ACTION phone calls & s. Other issues will follow afterwards. A MANDATORY HELMET LAW has been introduced in the Florida House!!! The day we ve all dreaded, but are prepared to fight! Please read all of the following information sent from Scribe, and see how easy and simple it is to fight this potential loss of freedom and right of choice!!!! Use the website to find your representative, and CALL & THEM!! Subject: Helmet Bill has been filed in Florida House Hey Everyone, A motorcycle helmet bill has been filed in the Florida House by brand new Rep. Don Hahnfeldt a republican from District 33. District 33 is all of Sumter County, and parts of Lake and Marion Counties. HB 6009 Motorcycle Safety By Rep. Hahnfeldt, Removes provisions authorizing certain persons over 21 years of age to operate/ride motorcycle without wearing protective headgear; provides penalties. It will make riding without a helmet a noncriminal traffic 26 infraction, punishable as a nonmoving violation as provided in 27 chapter 318. So the fight is on, but what makes this worse are the new rules the Speaker of the House has placed on lobbyist. The only way we can defeat this is if everyone of us calls and talks to our OWN Representative personally that we are opposed to this bill. This is not something that just a few people can do, this is something that every single member of ABATE of Florida, Inc. needs to do. The Legislators are back home for the Holidays, so take time to reach out to them. Please get this out to all your members ASAP... we have to act fast and stay in action. Please remind your members to not say or do anything stupid or aggressive to the Legislators. The last thing we need is someone getting pissed off and yelling or threatening someone. We will fight this by giving facts and discussing CALMLY that this will not be the answer. The last DHSMV stats for 2015 show this about the motorcyclist deaths in Florida: Killed wearing a helmet = 276

12 10 Killed without a helmet = 237 Killed with non approved helmet = 20 Killed unknown helmet or not = 13 Subject: How to find your legislators Here is a web page that will help you find out who your legislators are and their address and the office phone number. Talking points suggestions for HB 6009 Below are a few talking points that you can use to talk with your legislators about HB 6009 * Phone calls to either the legislators District office or Tally office are better than sending an . * You have more clout with your own legislator than with one from another district. Use that clout by telling the legislators office that you are one of their constituents. To find out who your State legislators are visit this web page and enter your address. * The absolute most important thing is to speak to them in a calm friendly manner. Do not call angry or talk down to the person. The old saying is true You attract more bees with honey than you do with vinegar. We cannot afford to turn any legislators against us. * When you call the legislators office, you will almost always get the secretary or aide. Be prepared to tell your name, address and phone number. Tell them that you are a member of ABATE of Florida, Inc. Chapter. If you are a regular voter then tell them that. Don t tell them you vote if you rarely ever vote. * If you do vote regularly, the past few general and primary elections you are a Super Voter. This carries more clout because they now know that you actually do get out and vote. * Tell the person at the office that you are opposed to HB 6009 and you would like the legislator help fight against this bill. Something as simple as: o Hello, my name is Darrin Brooks, 1234 Main Street in Naples, Florida. I am a member of ABATE of Florida, Gator Alley Chapter in Collier County. I am call to ask for Rep. Donalds help in opposing HB I live in Rep. Donalds district and I vote in every single election. Please let Rep. Donalds know that I am opposed to HB 6009 and I would like his help opposing this bill. Thank you. o Occasionally they might ask you why you are opposed to the bill. If the office is busy that day they probably will not ask you why you are opposed. * Here are a few short easy to give reasons why you oppose HB 6009: o There has not been any definitive proof that simply wearing a helmet will guarantee saving a life. In 2015, 296 motorcyclists were killed in Florida while wearing a helmet. This is compared to 237 killed without a helmet. o There is no definitive proof that all motorcyclists killed without a helmet died from head injuries. o There is no definitive proof that the cost of medical treatment to an injured motorcyclist is actually passed on to society to pay. People for the mandatory helmet law love to say that X amount of

13 11 dollars for motorcyclists medical bills are passed on to the citizens of Florida. This is simply illogical and is presumptive that ALL motorcyclist have no insurance at all. o If the only reason for this bill is to save lives, then support a statewide Motorcycle Awareness Program. Education not legislation can save more lives. o $2.50 of all motorcycle registration fees goes into a motorcycle awareness education fund. Give ABATE of Florida at least 25% of that yearly money and we can mount a Statewide Motorcycle Awareness program that is effective, efficient and saves the State of Florida lives and money. * When done, Thank the person for listening and let them know that if they have any further questions we will get back with them. Then contact Doc and myself so that we can answer their questions. * From: Florida ABATE State VP <flabatestatevp@gmail.com> To: Darrin Brooks <darrinbrooks@gmail.com> Sent: Mon, Jan 9, :41 pm Subject: Helmet bill assigned to committees * Hey Everyone, * HB 6009 the helmet bill has just been assigned to committees. It has only been given two committees so we need to keep in contact with our legislators. Please make sure all your members are aware of the importance of contacting their legislators. Have them go to this website to find their legislators * The first committee that it will be heard in is the Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee * Brad Drake - Chair * Clay Ingram - Vice Chair * Barbara Watson - Ranking Democrat * Kimberly Daniels * Michael Grant * Kristin Diane Jacobs * Amber Mariano * Ralph Massullo * Mike Miller * Wengay Newton * Bobby Payne * Jackie Toledo * Matt Willhite * Jayer Williamson * Clay Yarborough

14 12 * The second and last committee is the Government Accountability Committee: * Matt Caldwell - Chair * Charlie Stone - Vice Chair * Clovis Watson - Ranking Democrat member * Joseph Abruzzo * Ben Albritton * Colleen Burton * Neil Combee * Brad Drake * Jay Fant * Patrick Henry * Kristin Diane Jacobs * Chris Latvala * Amber Mariano * Wengay Newton * Cary Pigman * Scott Plakon * Holly Raschein * Daniel Raulerson * Bob Rommel * David Santiago * Carlos Guillermo Smith * Barbara Watson * Matt Wilhite * Jayer Williamson * If any of these people are your legislator, please call their office to let them know that HB 6009 has been assigned to one of their committees (tell them which committee). Ask them again for their support in OPPOSING HB See my last few s for talking points and remember to stress to your members NOT TO HARASS the legislators or their staff. Always speak in a calm easy voice, do not argue and do not post negative things about a legislator. I know that I sound like a broken record about this but we have already had one member do that.

15 13 * Darrin "Scribe" Brooks * State Vice President * State Legislative Trustee, * ABATE of Florida, Inc. * IN OTHER LEGISLATIVE STUFF: 2017 Florida House Bills of Interest HB 47 Texting While Driving General Bill by Stark Texting While Driving: Revises penalties for violations of Florida Ban on Texting While Driving Law; provides enhanced penalties for such violations when committed in school zone or school crossing; removes requirement that specified provisions be enforced as secondary action by law enforcement agency. Effective Date: July 1, 2017 Last Event: Monday, January 09, Now in Transportation & Infrastructure Subcommittee HB 69 - Use of Wireless Communications Devices while Driving General Bill by Slosberg Use of Wireless Communications Devices while Driving: Provides for primary enforcement of Florida Ban on Texting While Driving Law for drivers age 18 or younger; requires deposit of fines into Emergency Medical Services Trust Fund. Effective Date: July 1, 2017 Last Event: Monday, January 09, Now in Transportation & Infrastructure Subcommittee HB 167 Assault Weapons and High Capacity Magazines General Bill by Smith Assault Weapons and High Capacity Magazines: Prohibit sale or transfers of assault weapons or large capacity ammunition magazine; provides exceptions; prohibits possession of assault weapon or large-capacity magazine; provides exceptions; requires certificates of possession for assault weapons or large capacity ammunition magazines lawfully possessed before specified date; limits transfers of weapons or large capacity ammunition magazines represented by such certificates; provides conditions for continued possession of such weapons or large capacity ammunition magazines; requires certificates of transfer for transfers of assault weapons or large capacity magazines; provides for relinquishment of assault weapons or large capacity magazines; provides requirements for transportation of assault weapons; specifies circumstances in which manufacture or transportation of assault weapons or large capacity magazines is not prohibited; provides enhanced criminal penalties for certain offenses when committed with assault weapon or large capacity magazine. Effective Date: October 1st 2017 Last Event: Filed on Thursday, January 05, :51 AM HB Concealed Weapons and Firearms

16 14 General Bill by Raburn Concealed Weapons and Firearms: Revises areas of an airport where person is prohibited from openly carrying handgun or from carrying concealed weapon or firearm. Effective Date: July 1, 2017 Last Event: Monday, January 09, Now in Criminal Justice Subcommittee HB Licenses to Carry Concealed Weapons or Firearms General Bill by Plankon Licenses to Carry Concealed Weapons or Firearms: Removes provision prohibiting concealed carry licensees from openly carrying handgun or carrying concealed weapon or firearm into college or university facility. Effective Date: July 1, 2017 Last Event: Monday, January 09, Now in Criminal Justice Subcommittee ===================================================================================== =============HB 6007 Traffic Infraction Detectors General Bill by Avila Traffic Infraction Detectors: Repeals provisions relating to installation & use of traffic infraction detectors to enforce specified provisions when driver fails to stop at traffic signal, provisions that authorize DHSMV, county, or municipality to use such detectors, & provisions for distribution of penalties collected for specified violations. Effective Date: July 1, 2020 Last Event: Monday, January 09, Now in Transportation & Infrastructure Subcommittee HB 6009 Motorcycle Safety General Bill by Hahnfeltd Motorcycle Safety: Removes provisions authorizing certain persons over 21 years of age to operate/ride motorcycle without wearing protective headgear; provides penalties. Effective Date: July 1, Florida Senate Bills of interest SB 128 Self-Defense Immunity General Bill by Bradley Self-defense Immunity: Requiring that the burden of proof in a criminal prosecution be on the party seeking to overcome the immunity claim under certain circumstances, etc. Effective Date: Upon becoming a law Last Event: Thursday, December 29, /29/16 S On Committee agenda-- Judiciary, 01/10/17, 2:00 pm, 110 Senate Office Building Meeting Canceled

17 15 SB 140 Openly Carrying a Handgun General Bill by Steube Openly Carrying a Handgun: Authorizing a compliant licensee to openly carry a handgun, etc. Effective Date: 07/01/2017 Last Event: Thursday, December 29, /29/16 S On Committee agenda-- Judiciary, 01/10/17, 2:00 pm, 110 Senate Office Building Meeting Canceled SB 142 Safe Storage of Loaded Firearms General Bill by Farmer Safe Storage of Loaded Firearms: Revising the locations and circumstances in which a loaded firearm is required to be kept or secured with a trigger lock; deleting provisions relating to conditions for committing the crime of failing to safely store, leave, or secure a loaded firearm in a specified manner, etc. Effective Date: 10/01/2017 Last Event: Tuesday, December 20, /20/16 S Referred to Judiciary; Governmental Oversight and Accountability; Rules SB 144 Use of Wireless Communications Devises While Driving General Bill by Garcia Use of Wireless Communications Devises While Driving: Providing for primary enforcement of the Florida Ban on Texting While Driving Law for drivers age 18 or younger; requiring deposit of fines into the Emergency Medical Services Trust Fund, etc. Effective Date: 07/01/2017 Last Event: Tuesday, December 20, /20/16 S Referred to Communications, Energy, and Public Utilities; Transportation; Appropriations Subcommittee on Transportation, Tourism, and Economic Development; Appropriations SB Prohibited Places for Weapons and Firearms General Bill by Braynon Prohibited Places for Weapons and Firearms: Revising the locations where a licensee is prohibited from openly carrying a handgun or carrying a concealed weapon or firearm, etc. Effective Date: 07/01/2017 Last Event: 12/14/16 S Filed on Wednesday, December 14, 2016 SB 178 Traffic Infraction Detectors General Bill by Artiles

18 16 Traffic Infraction Detectors: Repealing provisions relating to the definitions of local hearing officer and traffic infraction detector and to the installation and use of traffic infraction detectors to enforce specified provisions when a driver fails to stop at a traffic signal, provisions that authorize the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, a county, or a municipality to use such detectors, and the distribution of penalties collected for specified violations, etc. Effective date: 07/01/2020 Last event: 12/15/16 S Filed on 12/15/16 SB Traffic Infraction Detectors General Bill by Rodriguez Traffic Infraction Detectors: Decreasing the penalty to be assessed and collected by the department, county, or municipality if a traffic infraction detector is used to enforce specified violations when a driver failed to stop at a traffic signal; prohibiting the suspension of a person s driver license and privilege to drive or the withholding of the license plate or revalidation sticker for failure to pay certain penalties under certain circumstances, etc. Effective date: 10/01/17 Last Event: Filed on 12/16/16 SB 254 Gun Safety General Bill by Stewart (CO-SPONSORS) Farmer Gun Safety: Prohibiting the sale or transfer of an assault weapon or large capacity ammunition magazine; prohibiting possession of an assault weapon or large-capacity magazine; requiring certificates of possession for assault weapons or large capacity ammunition magazines lawfully possessed before a specified date; providing enhanced criminal penalties for certain offenses when committed with an assault weapon or large capacity magazine, etc. Effective Date: 10/01/2017 SENATE PANEL TO TAKE UP 'STAND YOUR GROUND' BILL The Senate Judiciary Committee next week is expected to take up a proposal that would shift the legal burden of proof in "stand your ground" self-defense cases --- but the panel is not slated to consider a controversial measure that would expand the ability of people to carry guns in public. The Judiciary Committee's agenda for a meeting next Tuesday includes the "stand your ground" bill (SB 128), filed by Sen. Rob Bradley, R-Fleming Island. The bill stems from a Florida Supreme Court ruling in 2015 that said defendants have the burden of proof to show they should be shielded from prosecution under the "stand your ground" law. In "stand your ground" cases, pretrial evidentiary hearings are held to determine whether defendants should be immune from prosecution. The bill --- and an identical proposal in the House (HB 245) --- would shift that burden of proof from defendants to prosecutors. But the Judiciary Committee's agenda does not include a gun bill that has drawn wider debate. That bill (SB 140), filed by Judiciary Chairman Greg Steube, R-Sarasota, would allow people with concealed-weapons licenses to openly carry handguns in public and to carry them in places such as college and university campuses and airport terminals. The committee had been scheduled to consider Steube's bill Jan. 10, but the meeting was canceled. Here are some new stories from Tally: LAWMAKER SEEKS TO PROTECT 'VULNERABLE' ROAD USERS Motorists who cause bodily injury to bicyclists or "vulnerable road users could, in addition to other charges, get slapped with fines up to $2,500, under a bill filed Thursday by Sen. Kathleen Passidomo, R-Naples. The proposal (SB 408) came a little more than a week after Washington, D.C.-based Smart Growth America released a report called "Dangerous By

19 17 Design" that put eight Florida metro regions among the 10 most dangerous communities to walk in the nation. Out of 104 metro areas, the Cape Coral-Fort Myers region received the top ranking in Smart Growth America's "Pedestrian Danger Index" released Jan. 10. Smart Growth America, which advocates for more walkable neighborhoods and more convenient ways to travel, based its pedestrian index on a number of factors, including the amount of people who walk to work and pedestrian deaths. Also in the top 10 were: Palm Bay-Melbourne- Titusville, Orlando-Kissimmee-Sanford, Jacksonville, Deltona-Daytona Beach-Ormond Beach, Lakeland-Winter Haven, Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater and North Port-Sarasota-Bradenton. Miami, Fort Lauderdale and West Palm Beach, lumped into a single metro area, came in 11th on the list. Passidomo's proposal (SB 408) calls for motorists' licenses to be suspended for three years, with a requirement to retake a driver's exam, if they are charged with non-criminal traffic infractions that result in serious bodily injury or death to bicyclists or "vulnerable" road users. Along with walkers and bicyclists, the bill defines a "vulnerable" road user as a highway worker, as well as people riding horses, farm tractors, horse-drawn carriages or electric mobility devices. As a House member, Passidomo proposed similar legislation the past two years, but the bills did not pass. HOUSE MEMBERS EYE RED-LIGHT CAMERAS A proposal that would eliminate red-light cameras is scheduled to go before the House Transportation & Infrastructure Subcommittee on Wednesday. The discussion of the measure (HB 6007), sponsored by Rep. Bryan Avila, R-Hialeah, and Rep. Blaise Ingoglia, R-Spring Hill, is the first step in a renewed effort by some lawmakers during the upcoming legislative session to turn off the traffic cameras. Attempts to ban red-light cameras have failed during past sessions. Supporters of the cameras say they improve traffic safety, while critics say the devices have become a way for local governments to collect revenue. The state and local governments split the $158 fines for red-light camera violations. Fines yielded nearly $60 million for the state budget last year, according to the state Department of Revenue. Cities and counties collected about $53 million, with about half of that going to red-light camera companies. Sen. Frank Artiles, R-Miami, has filed a Senate version of the bill (SB 178) aimed at ending the cameras. AGENCY SEEKS MONEY AMID RISE IN CONCEALED WEAPON LICENSES A continued increase in the number of people seeking concealed-weapons licenses will require an additional $2.61 million to cover costs of licensing and background checks, according to the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. The department's request to increase its funding is among a number of agency proposals going before the Joint Legislative Budget Commission on Tuesday. The department, which is responsible for issuing concealedweapon or firearm licenses, notes the state is on a pace to process 316,738 concealed-weapons applications during the fiscal year that began July 1. Through October, 105,594 new applications had been received. During the fiscal year, the department handled 244,726 new applications. "To meet the continued demand, the operating costs have increased substantially," budget commission paperwork said. "Deficits are projected in several appropriation categories in the Division of Licensing Trust Fund." The department was budgeted for more than $25 million from the trust fund for the current year, with the total dominated by staff salaries and contracted services. VETERANS COULD GET SALES-TAX HOLIDAY Honorably discharged U.S. military veterans would get a sales-tax break when buying clothes during the Veterans Day holiday, under a measure filed Tuesday by state Rep. Mel Ponder, R-Destin. The measure (HB 263) would lift sales taxes on most clothes and footwear priced $60 or less from Nov. 10 through Nov. 12. The proposal would require veterans to show proof of military status when buying the items. SENATE PANEL TO TAKE UP 'STAND YOUR GROUND' BILL The Senate Judiciary Committee next week is expected to take up a proposal that would shift the legal burden of proof in "stand your ground" self-defense cases --- but the panel is not slated to consider a controversial measure that would expand the ability of people to carry guns in public. The Judiciary Committee's agenda for a meeting next Tuesday includes the "stand your ground" bill (SB 128), filed by Sen. Rob Bradley, R-Fleming Island. The bill stems from a Florida Supreme Court ruling in 2015 that said defendants have the burden of proof to show they should be shielded from prosecution under the "stand your ground" law. In "stand your ground" cases, pretrial evidentiary hearings are held to determine whether defendants should be immune from prosecution. The bill --- and an identical proposal in the House (HB 245) --- would shift that burden of proof from defendants to prosecutors. But the Judiciary Committee's agenda does not include a gun bill that has drawn wider debate. That bill (SB 140), filed by Judiciary Chairman Greg Steube, R-Sarasota, would allow people with concealed-weapons licenses to openly

20 18 carry handguns in public and to carry them in places such as college and university campuses and airport terminals. The committee had been scheduled to consider Steube's bill Jan. 10, but the meeting was canceled. HELMET BILL UPDATE JUST IN!! Hey Everyone, Here is an update on HB Helmet Bill as of Sunday January 29, 2017 HB 6009 has not yet been scheduled to be heard by its first committee the Transportation & Infrastructure Subcommittee. The Transportation & Infrastructure Subcommittee has already met twice this year and the next scheduled meeting will be February 8th. They usually will not publish the meeting agenda until a week to five days before the meeting. Doc has been working hard meeting and talking to legislators from both the House and Senate about HB We have heard positive comments from legislators that ABATE of Florida, Inc. members have been calling and asking for their help in opposing HB I want to thank you for helping to get the word out and urge you to continue to educate members to give their own legislators a quick call. There is still no companion bill in the Senate to HB 6009, so continue to include your Senators in your quick calls. I really appreciate that the calls form ABATE of Florida members have been polite, respectful and professional. It shows that we are educated on the facts and confident in our actions. Many of you know the process that a bill must take to become a law, but to those that need a fresher, I will give a quick overview of the journey. 1. A legislator must sponsor and file the bill. There must be a bill in BOTH the House and the Senate and they both follow the same basic pathway. 2. The bill is assigned to committees, most often 2 to 4 separate committees. 3. The bill must be placed on the agenda of the first committee 4. The bill must be heard in the committee and successfully passed by each committee on the path. 5. The bill must be read in the Chamber (House bills on the House floor and Senate bills on the Senate Floor) 6. The respective chamber must pass the bill by a majority vote. 7. The House and Senate will decide on one of the bills to present to the Governor. 8. The Governor will either will either sign in to law or veto the bill. This simple overview doesn't address the issues of amendments to the bill. That is separate very complex series of events. We will address those if they arise. You can see that HB 6009 is only on step 2 so a long journey is still ahead. A journey that can take many twists and turns. I personally have a good feeling that we are on the right track and with everyone reaching out to their own legislators in a polite, respectful and professional manner it will be difficult for HB 6009 to pass. I look forward to seeing you in Ocala in a few weeks. Darrin "Scribe" Brooks State Vice President State Legislative Trustee, ABATE of Florida, Inc. That s it for this month y all. RIDE SAFE AND ENJOY.Zman

21 19 Tim Roadmap No submission this month. Ride Safe Ride often Ride Free, Roadmap

22 20 Steve Ammerman Hi Polk County, Hi Polk County, I am working on a couple of things for First off I am organizing another Accident Scene Management course. As of right now our chapter has twelve members trained to help save fellow bikers lives. I will be signing up people at the February meeting on Sunday, February 19th at Boondocks Bar. Secondly, I am putting together a Motorcycle Safety Tips manual which should be completed soon. I am writing it and having a couple of members proof read it. Safety should always be out first priority. Steve Ammerman Webmaster

23 21 ABATE came to Florida in the mid 1970 s. At that time it was a group of individual and unaffiliated chapters. In 1979, ABATE of Florida, Inc. was formed by the individual chapters. This union was the basis for today s organization. Throughout the years, ABATE of Florida, Inc. has strived to be an effective political force for the rights of motorcyclists in Florida. We have also attempted to keep up to date on all legislation on a federal level and have tried to input our concerns to our federal officials. ABATE of Florida, Inc. has hired a professional lobbyist to aid us in our fight for freedom of choice. Our lobbyist has also been instructed to keep a close watch on all State or National legislation that would affect all motorcyclists. ABATE of Florida, Inc. is also a member of the AMA (American Motorcyclist Association), N.C.O.M (National Coalition of Motorcyclist) and MFR (Motorcycle Riders Foundation). Ida Holland Hello ABATE Members; We got some really cool stuff in the works for the year. The only one I can mention right now is the gun raffle. We are working on a new game for the rodeo. We still need to work out the details so look for more info in the following newsletters. Ida Ride daily and Ride Safe Please note any political information in the chapter newsletter is for your educational purposes only and is not meant as promotional materials. All members are encouraged to submit articles, photos, and other materials that would be of interest to their fellow members by 11:00pm on Friday following the chapter meeting except when announced otherwise. All board members are encouraged to submit their articles as soon as possible following the monthly meeting. Please do not submit slanderous or accusing letters, profanity or nudity.

24 22 Calling all members we are looking for letters from YOU!!! It does not have to be about the chapter it can be about legislative issues, community activities that have happened or other vital information. Please send your submissions to either PO Box 2743 Lakeland, FL or Join Us! At our next meeting Feb. 19th, 2017 at 1:00PM Boondock 8515 US Hwy 98 North Lakeland, FL

25 23 Rusty Goff No submission this month.

26 24 Polk County Chapter State April 9 th & 10th Tallahassee Run Apri 16 th Gun Raffle Other Chapters (go to to see flyers) Every TUES 6-9 PM BEEF O BRADYS Northside Lakeland Every WED 6 PM -?? MOJO s - Lakeland Every THURS 7 PM -?? JOHNNY G s Lakeland Every Thurs 7 PM -?? LA s MIDWAY Across from Winter Haven Airport Every FRI 7 PM -?? POUR HOUSE Havendale Blvd, Winter Haven Every Thurs 7PM -?? Sal s Island Cypress Gardens Blvd. Winter Haven

27 Florida s Consumer Law Firm Bankruptcy * Foreclosure Injuries * Litigation Real Property * Loan Modifications Keith P. Merritt, M.B.A. Supreme Court Certified Mediator Cindy Green 335 Doris Drive Lakeland, FL (863) Fax (863) Mailing address, P.O. Box 92412, Lakeland, FL or visit us at ABATE of Florida, Inc. Polk County Chapter 25

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29 27 Contact your elected officials - They work for YOU! For corrections to this listing please abatenewsletter@hotmail.com Governor Rick Scott The Capitol 400 South Monroe Street Tallahassee, FL Senator Darren Soto D-District 14 Legislative Assistant: Christine Aleknavich 220 Senate Office Building 404 South Monroe Street Tallahassee, FL Soto.Darren.web@flsenate.gov Senator Kelli Stargel R-District 15 Legislative Assistant: Rachel Barnes 324 Senate Office Building 404 South Monroe Street Tallahassee, FL Stargel.Kelli.web@flsenate.gov Senator Denise Gimsley R-District 21 Legislative Assistant: Larry Ford, Andrea Jahna and Marty Mielke 306 Senate Office Building 404 South Monroe Street Tallahassee, FL Grimsley.Denise.web@flsenate.gov Representative Neil Combee R-District 39 Legislative Assistant: Barbara Blasingame 1302 The Capitol 404 South Monroe Street Tallahassee, FL Representative Seth McKeel R-District 40 Legislative Assistant: Joseph Clements 222 The Capitol 402 South Monroe Street Tallahassee, FL

30 28 Representative John Wood R-District 41 Legislative Assistant: Emily Nance 214 The Capitol 402 South Monroe Street Tallahassee, FL Representative Mike La Rosa R-District 42 Legislative Assistant: Rebekah Hurd 1302 The Capitol 402 South Monroe Street Tallahassee, FL Representative Ben Albritton R-District 56 Legislative Assistant: Kevin Cleary 222 The Capitol 402 South Monroe Street Tallahassee, FL Senator Bill Nelson D-Florida 716 Senate hart Office Building Washington DC F: Senator Marco Rubio R-Florida 317 Hart Senate Office Building Washington DC Representative C.W. Bill Young 10th Congressional District Rayburn House Office Building Washington, DC F: Representative Bill Posey 15th Congressional District 120 Cannon House Office Building Washington, DC F: Representative Dennis Ross R-Lakeland 12th Congressional District 404 Cannon House Office Building Washington, DC F: