AMA 'Justice for all' rolls into California
American Motorcycle Association Press Release - Oct 11, 2006

The American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) has announced that California has enacted a law supporting the goals of the AMA's "Justice for All" campaign.

California SB-1021, which was signed into law by Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger on September 30, imposes additional fines when a motorist is convicted of a traffic offense that causes "bodily injury" or "serious bodily injury" to another person. The new law also mandates that the California Driver's Handbook and the curriculum of traffic-violator schools include information about "respecting the right-of-way of others, particularly pedestrians, bicycle riders, and motorcycle riders." 

"California's new law shows what can be accomplished when lawmakers and motorcyclists work together," said Nick Haris, AMA Western States Representative. "Riders nationwide have embraced the goals of 'Justice for All' to get laws passed, state by state, and we believe that this momentum will continue to build."

The AMA recognizes the legislative leadership shown by bill sponsor Senator Debra Bowen (D-28) and co-sponsor Assembly Member Bonnie Garcia (R-80), along with the activism of ABATE of California, in achieving this victory.

California joins 15 other states in passing legislation that supports the goals of Justice for All: Arkansas, Georgia, Iowa, Louisiana, Maine, Missouri, New Hampshire, New York, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, and Wisconsin.