The Plot Thickens

LD 1306 is out and Scheduled for Public Hearing on the 12th of April at 1pm before the Transportation Committee. You can read the full text here, http://www.mainelegislature.org/legis/bills/bills_125th/billtexts/HP095801.asp .

The Summary is easier reading but does not really do the language justice. Here is the Summary,

This bill amends the definition of "antique auto" to include that the vehicle may be used for occasional personal use and that it may not have undergone a change in some of the component parts of the vehicle. It amends the definition of "custom vehicle" by changing the number of years of age that would constitute a custom vehicle from 30 years to 25 years. It removes the weight limit of what constitutes a custom vehicle and indicates that the exemptions adopted by the Chief of the State Police apply to a custom vehicle. The bill also directs the Department of the Secretary of State, Bureau of Motor Vehicles to invite the participation of representatives of antique auto, street rod and custom vehicle organizations to review the affidavit that must be filed with the bureau when registering an antique auto, custom vehicle, horseless carriage or street rod and to report to the Second Regular Session of the 125th Legislature with its findings.

The Language in this Bill is Horrific, the "undergone a change in some of the component parts of the vehicle" is absolutely not the language promised and I DO NOT Agree with it. However after talking to the MCAA Rep. that wrote this drivel, it was explained to me that he submitted a draft that had "Modified" and "Altered" used in the wording and after two attempts at the wording the Revisers Office came up with this. He will not stand by his own bill if the wording does not change. Think "Spell Check" gone "Politically Correct".

The portion of the Bill that I do Support is the formation of the stakeholders group to help clarify and come to a viable conclusion in closing the loophole. This could lead to a correction that would actually work. It would be better to let us handle it rather than the State, which could be compared to calling a Plumber to be the Electrician. In the mean time the Right Reverend Fudgewhistle and his followers are rallying against this bill, insisting that it is a plot by State Officials and paid lobbyists to make it more difficult to register and enjoy Antique Automobiles. Even going so far as to call it "a Wolf in Sheep's Clothing".

If that is True I'm the Ogre under the Bridge.

The soup is turning to stew, and I'm not in charge of Stirring the pot.