FIRST PERSON/OPINION Via e-mail: I sent a letter to the NYC Council about the proposed motorcycle muffler law. Here is the response I received. Scott “Roserunner” Baldwin AFM #47(retired) Santa Rosa, California February 2, 2009 Robert Baldwin New York, NY 10022-2441 Dear Mr. Baldwin, Thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts and views about Proposed Int. No. 416-A. I know a lot of folks are concerned that this bill unfairly targets motorcyclists and could result in the widespread seizure and forfeiture of people’s bikes. Now, this is certainly not something I would support, nor do I believe it’s the intent of this legislation. Proposed Int. No. 416-A, sponsored by Council Member Gerson, is aimed specifically at reducing the level of noise in our City by prohibiting the parking, standing, or stopping of motorcycles equipped with straight pipes. Current laws aimed at such motorcycles require the noise to be heard before the police can actually act. However, it’s difficult and often dangerous for police officers to pull over moving motorcycles, so these types of vehicles are rarely ticketed. Proposed Int. No. 416-A would help ensure public health and safety by allowing a police officer to examine a parked motorcycle’s muffler to determine whether it falls under the definition of “straight pipe” provided in the bill. On December 14, 2006, the Council’s Public Safety Committee, chaired by Council Member Peter Vallone, Jr., held a hearing to discuss the proposed bill. After this hearing, the bill was revised. A second hearing on the amended bill was held on December 10, 2008. Since then Council Members have continued to meet with concerned citizens in order to discuss the proposed legislation. Efforts are currently being made to address some of the concerns raised about the proposed law, and to help make sure that it only meets its stated intent. As always, the health and quality of life of all New Yorkers must be our first priority when weighing this or any other legislation that may impact public safety. Please be assured that as we continue to review this legislation and discuss changes, balancing the need to regulate noise in the city with the interests of the motorcycle community, the comments and concerns of all interested stakeholders will be taken into careful consideration. Thank you again for sharing your thoughts and views on this important matter with me. I will be sure to keep you updated on any new developments with this bill as they occur. Sincerely, Christine C. Quinn Speaker New York, New York