Oregon H.B. 2186

Here is a typical letter you can copy and paste if you want to be heard on this issue --
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Date: XXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
Oregon House Speaker Mr. Dave Hunt
Members of the Oregon House Environment and Water Committee

I am writing to you today as I have recently learned about H.B. 2186. I am very concerned. This type of legislation is poorly conceived and will cause more harm than benefit.

A significant number of vehicle owners chose to deviate from OEM equipment to personalize and optimize the performance and appearance of their vehicles. Other modifications are performed out of necessity in regards to job needs, vehicular usage, and handicap access.

The Bill describes itself by claiming to focus on "decreasing greenhouse gasses from motor vehicles" when the actual target seems to be the aftermarket industry, it's employees, commercial vehicle users, and the tens of thousands of enthusiasts that build a hobby surrounding the vehicles that they drive on a daily basis.

The economic impact of such a bill would be devastating. Imagine the loss of revenue and jobs if the numerous aftermarket manufacturers, retailers, and installers were no longer allowed to do business in Oregon. How many employees would be lost from Oregon based industries like Warn Ind., Warrior Products, and Les Schwab, not to mention the numerous small retailers and installers that would lose their customer base. Oregon cannot afford to lose any more jobs, especially in this economic climate. Can you, in good conscience, vote for a Bill that would put more people out of work?

This Bill also sets a dangerous precedent. Numerous activities such as trailering, boating, and RVing all create conditions where fuel consumption is increased, therefore increasing greenhouse gasses. Are these activities next in the sights of the Bill's authors? Where will it stop?

This Bill also seeks to regulate fuel economy, an authority reserved to the Federal Government. Imagine the costs of defending lawsuits against this Bill.  Is this setting up wasteful spending when we need to watch spending?

Speaking from the perspective of a vehicle enthusiast, we Oregonians enjoy exploring the wonderful area in which we live. By supporting this bill, it will essentially keep us from doing what we love most. A stock vehicle is not designed for every situation that an average driver might encounter. Fortunately, the aftermarket performance industry makes it possible for motorized users to enjoy the outdoors in a safe, clean, and less destructive way.

I am behind preserving the environment, however limiting the aftermarket industry is not a viable answer. Please do not support H.B. 2186.

Sincerely,
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Send to:
Oregon House Speaker Mr. Dave Hunt -- rep.davehunt@state.or.us
Address:
900 Court St. NE, H-269
Salem, OR 97301
Phone:
503-986-1440
Oregon House Environment and Water Committee
Representative Ben Cannon - Chair
Phone: 503/986-1446
Email: rep.bencannon@state.or.us
Representative Jules Bailey
Phone: 503/986-1442
Email: rep.juleskopelbailey@state.or.us
Representative Phil Barnhart
Phone: 503/986-1411
Email: rep.philbarnhart@state.or.us
Representative Cliff Bentz
Phone: 503/986-1460
Email: rep.cliffbentz@state.or.us
Representative Deborah Boone
Phone: 503/986-1432
Email: rep.deborahboone@state.or.us
Representative Vic Gilliam
Phone: 503/986-1418
Email: rep.vicgilliam@state.or.us
Representative Bob Jenson
Phone: 503/986-1458
Email: rep.bobjenson@state.or.us
Representative Jefferson Smith
Phone: 503/986-1447
Email: rep.jeffersonsmith@state.or.us