Sen. Kane’s Bill Would Benefit Vets; Idea Came from Bridgewater Marine

Sen. Rob Kane on Feb 19 testifies before the Veterans Affairs’ Committee on his bill which would allow members of the armed forces who have earned motorcycle endorsements while in the armed forces to have that endorsement qualify for a Connecticut motorcycle license.

On Feb. 19, a public hearing was held on Watertown State Sen. Rob Kane’s bill which would allow members of the armed forces who have earned motorcycle endorsements while in the armed forces to have that endorsement qualify for a Connecticut motorcycle license.

“Most members of our armed forces are not able to take multiple days off to take a DMV class and test when they’ve already proven in a different branch of government that they have the skills required to operate a motorcycle safely,” Sen. Kane said. “Our current state law results in a frustrating and duplicative process – one that requires our active duty members of the armed forces to take a short leave of absence that they really shouldn’t have to take. This is a common sense measure which will make serving our state and our country a little easier for those who choose to ride motorcycles.”

The idea for Sen. Kane’s bill came from Christopher Curtin of Bridgewater, who is an active duty Marine currently stationed at Camp Lejeune.

The state’s Motorcyclists Rights Organization, the Connecticut Motorcycle Riders Association (www.thecmra.com), supports Sen. Kane’s bill.