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Senate of Pennsylvania
Session of 2015 - 2016 Regular Session

MEMORANDUM

Posted:	October 21, 2015 01:53 PM
From:	Senator John N. Wozniak
To:	All Senate members
Subject:	Motorcycle Profiling Education and Awareness

In the near future, I plan to introduce legislation supported and approved by the Alliance of Bikers Aimed Toward Education (A.B.A.T.E) organization, the Confederation of Clubs and the U.S. Defenders. The legislation addresses the issue of the profiling of motorcycle riders by some law enforcement personnel. Motorcycle profiling, like any other form of profiling, is a problem in Pennsylvania that can and should be remedied by education and awareness. Targeting a class of individuals because of characteristics defined by protected expression violates all reasonable constitutional conceptions of free speech, association, equal protection and privacy. Hundreds of signed and dated Motorcycle Profiling Victim Statements prove that profiling, whether it is intentional or unintentional, is happening in Pennsylvania. The issue and existence of motorcycle profiling is irrefutable and making our law enforcement professionals aware of and sensitive to the issue will address the problem. Motorcycle profiling awareness and sensitivity training laws are extremely effective and cost-beneficial. Washington State’s law has reduced profiling incidents by over 90 percent thereby allowing law enforcement personnel to focus on catching the real bad actors – not those perceived to be. Motorcycle profiling laws cost nothing and can save millions in potential civil liability. Supporting a sound policy and training is a reasonable and just response to an issue that impacts many law abiding citizens who choose to ride. Be a biker friendly legislator and join me in sponsoring this pro-biker legislation. If you have questions regarding this bill, please contact Josh Myers of my staff at 787-5400 or by email to jmyers@pasenate.com. Thank you for your consideration.

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