California

The state’s bill to protect motorcyclists from profiling by law enforcement officers failed to move forward. The bill, A.B. 2972, cleared the policy committee on a 5-2 vote. But the measure met opposition on the Assembly floor. Several lawmakers abstained, resulting in a 28-24 vote against the bill, which would prohibit law enforcement officers from stopping and questioning motorcyclists based on their choice of vehicle or clothing. Assemblymember Anna Caballero (D-Salinas), who introduced the bill, was granted reconsideration, but ultimately pulled the bill when it became clear it wasn’t likely to pass.

Maryland

The governor signed H.B. 722, allowing local communities within Allegany County to authorize ATV use on portions of state highways. The new law also allows ATVs to cross highways at a right angle. Both provisions limit the top speed of the ATVs to 25 mph.

Minnesota

The state Legislature passed S.F. 3466, which allows people possessing a motorcycle learner’s permit to ride a motorcycle on interstate highways and expressways. A person 16 or older who has a valid driver’s license may obtain a motorcycle learner’s permit by passing a written examination and paying a fee.

New Hampshire

Gov. Chris Sununu signed S.B. 516 into law on May 30, prohibiting motorcycle-only checkpoints by law enforcement agencies in the state.

Pennsylvania

The state Department of Conservation and Natural Resources has announced new public involvement in charting the future course of Pennsylvania’s state forests, with 20 public meetings. The first meeting was in May. Subsequent meetings are being announced as they are scheduled. The meetings focus on plans for specific districts and are intended to help the department revise its District State Forest Resource Management Plans. A management plan is written for each of the department’s 20 forest districts. A schedule of district public meetings can be found on the State Forest Resource Management Plan website at: www.dcnr.pa.gov > Conservation > Forests And Trees > State Forest Management > Resource Management Plan.

Tennessee

S.B. 680, signed by Gov. Bill Haslam, removes a restriction that off-highway vehicles only be operated on public streets and roads during one day of each of two big event weekends each year in Scott County. The new law specifies that the off-highway vehicles may be operated until midnight. The law became effective May 3.