In September, the Legislative Committee of the Motorcycle Riders Foundation (MRF) hosted a legislative strategy session during the 42nd Annual Meeting of the Minds in Brookfield, Wisconsin. The Committee had gathered to establish and prioritize the MRF’s 2027 Federal Legislative Agenda.
The MRF’s legislative issues fall into three priority categories: high, medium or monitor. This list remains fluid and can be adapted depending on developments regarding the issue or the political environment.
Below is a brief description of the top 12 issues on the MRF’s 2027 Legislative Agenda, listed as “High Priority.” The January 2027 issue of the American Bikers Journal will have more detail on each of these high priority issues, as well as the full list of an additional 14 priority items that fall into “Medium” or “Monitor” classifications.
As a reminder, all MRF members receive a copy of the American Bikers Journal with their membership.
HIGH PRIORITY OBJECTIVES:
Autonomous Vehicles: Advocate and monitor any legislation or regulations related to motorcycles concerning connected and autonomous vehicles.
Crash Avoidance: Continue to promote the theme of crash avoidance versus safer crashing urging the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) to focus on crash prevention and support rider education by providing funding and other resources.
Data Recording: Pursue legislative language that any collected or available vehicle data is the property of the consumer and in which the consumer has the choice of whether to opt-in to having their personal data communicated to interested parties.
Definition of a Motorcycle: Educate policymakers and advocate for change to the current definition that better reflects the current two and three-wheel motorcycle landscape.
Emission Regulations: Engage the Environmental protection Agency (EPA) & Congress on any activity related to motorcycle emission regulations
Helmet Laws/Equipment Mandates: Oppose any mandatory federal helmet or personal protective equipment/apparel mandates.
Internal Combustion Engines: Work to ensure the survival of internal combustion engines.
Profiling: Sustain lobbying efforts for the passage of resolutions or legislation that promotes awareness and prohibition of motorcyclist profiling.
Renewable Fuels: Advocate for targeted changes to the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS)
Right to Repair/Modify: Protect and advocate for “Right to Repair” provisions that allow consumers the ability to repair and modify their motorcycles.
Surface Transportation Reauthorization (Highway Bill): Advocate and pursue legislative efforts related to the next highway bill reauthorization (the current act is set to expire in 2026).
Vulnerable Roadway User Terminology: Monitor and ensure that motorcycles and motorcyclists are a specific and unique category or classification.
